Toward the May Commemorative Contribution activity this year, the SGI-USA is featuring a video experience from Anil Rajan, of Johns Creek, Georgia. In a brief conversation with the World Tribune, Anil shared the following.
World Tribune: What does the May Commemorative Contribution activity mean to you?
Anil Rajan: When my wife, Anu, and I were introduced to Nichiren Buddhism in 2008 by my work colleague, I was the sole provider of our family of four living in a two-bedroom rental in New Jersey. Our circumstances did not change overnight and, at times, my wife would express doubts as to why our financial situation was not improving with chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo.
We were reassured by reading Ikeda Sensei’s encouragement, which helped us deepen our trust in the Gohonzon. For instance, Sensei says: “The Gohonzon will never demand that you chant to it. An attitude of appreciation in being able to chant to the Gohonzon is the heart of faith. The more you exert yourselves in faith—in reciting the sutra morning and evening—the more you stand to gain” (Discussions on Youth, p. 221).
We began offering our home for district activities, and Anu also took on an SGI-USA leadership role, went on home visits, supported meetings and chanted with the members. We truly felt the joy in offering our time and our lives for the sake of other people’s happiness.
WT: How did you view financial offerings in the beginning?
Anil: It required a big shift in my lifelong attitude toward finances. As an accountant, I tend to be careful with my finances and giving has not been a common practice for me. The idea of making contributions started from Sensei’s encouragement that those who can feel gratitude are happy. I decided to set a personal goal, and, to achieve it, I chanted a lot each day. Participating joyfully in financial offerings empowered us to unlock new possibilities and pursue our dreams with renewed courage.
WT: How so?
Anil: I aspired to start my own business, but as the primary provider, I hesitated to leave my job of 28 years. I had to dig deep and chanted with a blueprint in mind that included getting into a safe business, having quality time with family and being able to protect the kosen-rufu movement through my financial contributions.
With my background in finance and the travel industry, I created a new concept of payment solutions for travel agencies. Within a year of leaving my job, I had three stable clients, including my prior employer, which allowed me to build a solid business.
WT: We understand you hit a significant road bump after that.
Anil: Yes, with the COVID shutdown, the travel business grounded to a halt. Anu and I became certified as life insurance agents to cover our basic living expenses. It was during this time that we saw the unfailing protection and benefit from this wonderful practice.
The Small Business Administration approved our travel agency’s paycheck protection program forgiveness loans, which helped us cover payroll and other expenses for 12 weeks. We also qualified for an economic injury disaster loan, with a very low interest rate that gave us the ability not only to jumpstart but also expand our business.
WT: How do you view all these experiences now?
Anil: I strongly feel all the fortune my family has experienced is based on our prayer and belief in this practice. Both our daughters are pursuing advanced degrees and participate in SGI activities. It is joyful to see how they have blossomed into compassionate and strong young women with a deep sense of purpose.
Anu and I are determined to continue supporting our kosen-rufu movement and making offerings, as it is a concrete way to promote kosen-rufu in these challenging times. It is also an opportunity to transform our lives and accumulate fundamental fortune that does not erode but grows stronger based on our vow for kosen-rufu.
To watch, go to portal.sgi-usa.org > “Organizational” > “Discussion Meeting Toolbox”
You are reading {{ meterCount }} of {{ meterMax }} free premium articles