NICHIREN SHOSHU TEMPLE FOR THE NORTHEASTERN UNITED STATES, EASTERN CANADA AND TRINIDAD/TOBAGO MYOSETSUJI NEWS ISSUE 133 JULY 1, 2012 GUIDANCE FROM SIXTY-EIGHTH HIGH PRIEST NICHINYO SHONIN On the Occasion of the May Kosen-rufu Shodai Ceremony May 6, 2012 Reception Hall, Head Temple Taisekiji On this occasion of the May Kosen-rufu Shodai Ceremony, conducted here today at the Head Temple, I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to the large number of participants in attendance. The month of May already has arrived, and one third of this year has passed. I imagine that you are striving for the achievement of your shakubuku goals, day and night, based on unity between priesthood and laity in the spirit of itai-doshin. As I observe the recent condition of society, I can see that it has been in a constant state of chaos, both politically and economically, and natural disasters, such as heavy rains and earthquakes have been occurring continuously since the Great East Japan Earthquake last year. At a time like this, we must uphold the Daishonin s true intention expressed in the Rissho ankoku-ron, and work toward (Continued on page 2) JOIN US IN WELCOMING Ethan Smith Michelle Delice Ferreira Andrean Erica Carlino Gabrielle Johnson Alma Osmanovic Maxielle De Jesus Mahlya June Eitner Julio E. Hernandez Timothy Johnson Lidia Laos-Taboas Miguel Mella Charlene Jamie Ames Teretha Jackson David Mechi Fonfrias Gosho Quote for July 2012 Questions and Answers between a Sage and a Foolish Man Truly it is more difficult to be born as a human being much more difficult than it is to lower a thread from the heavens above and pass it through the eye of a needle at the bottom of the sea, and it is rare to hear the teachings of Buddhism much rarer than it is for a turtle with only one eye to be able to find a piece of driftwood on which to rest. Now I have already obtained birth in the human realm, something difficult to achieve, and have had the privilege of hearing the Buddhist teachings, which are seldom encountered. If I should pass my present life in idleness, then in what future life could I possibly free myself from the sufferings of birth and death and attain enlightenment? (Gosho, p. 402)
PAGE 2 MYOSETSUJI NEWS GUIDANCE FROM SIXTY-EIGHTH HIGH PRIEST NICHINYO SHONIN (CONTINUED) (Continued from page 1) the realization of the great aspiration [of kosen-rufu], by conducting shakubuku with unity between priesthood and laity in the spirit of itai-doshin. As you know already, in the Rissho ankoku-ron (On Securing the Peace of the Land through the Propagation of True Buddhism), Nichiren Daishonin clarified the primary cause of chaos in the world, such as adverse occurrences and the development of confusion in the minds of the people. He stated as follows: All people have gone against the correct Law and become wholly devoted to evil doctrines. (Gosho, p. 234; The Gosho of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 2, p. 3) In other words, the root cause of adversity, confusion, and distress absolutely is due to the inappropriate teachings of various heretical religions, including the Soka Gakkai, which denigrates the three treasures. Therefore, if we don't refute all slanderous teachings and take faith in the supreme teaching of the one vehicle of the Lotus Sutra, we will not be able to establish true happiness and the peace of the land. The supreme teaching of the one vehicle of the Lotus Sutra is not the surface meaning of the words of the Lotus Sutra. It is the great Law of Myoho- Renge-Kyo, hidden in the depths of the Life Span (Juryo; sixteenth) chapter of the Lotus Sutra, and it is also the Dai-Gohonzon of the High...in the Rissho ankokuron (On Securing the Peace of the Land through the Propagation of True Buddhism), Nichiren Daishonin clarified the primary cause of chaos in the world, such as adverse occurrences and the development of confusion in the minds of the people. Sanctuary of the Essential Teaching of the Three Great Secret Laws. However, in order for people all over the world to take faith in the Dai-Gohonzon of the High Sanctuary of the Essential Teaching, there is no way other than conducting shakubuku. Living beings in the Latter Day of the Law do not possess the seed of Buddhahood, and have done little to seek the Law themselves. Therefore, we actively must try to conduct shakubuku, in order to sow the seed of Myoho-Renge-Kyo. In the Gosho, On Attaining Enlightenment at the Initial Stage of Faith through the Lotus Sutra ( Hokke shoshin jobutsu-sho ), the Daishonin teaches the following about shakubuku in the Latter Day of the Law: In the Latter Day of the Law, it is a matter of principle that we should firmly teach the five characters of the honorable title of the Lotus Sutra, whether or not it is suited to the capacities of ignorant common mortals. This is because in the past, when Shakyamuni Buddha was called Bodhisattva Never Disparaging (Fukyo), he propagated the Lotus Sutra. Yet, men and women, monks and nuns, didn t embrace the Lotus Sutra. Bodhisattva Never Disparaging was spoken ill of and cursed, or beaten and exiled out of the country. Being targeted for numerous persecutions, he was detested and people held grudges against him. Yet, he remained un- (Continued on page 3)
ISSUE 133 PAGE 3 GUIDANCE FROM SIXTY-EIGHTH HIGH PRIEST NICHINYO SHONIN (CONTINUED) (Continued from page 2) daunted. Instead, he strongly taught the Lotus Sutra to the people. This led him to become Shakyamuni Buddha. (Gosho, p. 1315) Because living beings in the Latter Day of the Law do not possess the seed of Buddhahood, they cannot be saved unless people conduct shakubuku, and sow the seed of the true cause of the mystic Law into their lives. Just like Bodhisattva Never Disparaging, no matter how people may speak ill of us or curse us; begrudge or beat us; and whether they listen or not or whether they have the capacity or not, we must steadfastly tell them, so they can hear the teaching of Myoho- Renge-Kyo. Sometimes we even need to activate a poison-drum relationship, by forcefully teaching the Law to others. This way, they can form a relationship with Buddhism, and in the future, go onto attain Buddhahood through embracing Myoho-Renge-Kyo. Bodhisattva Never Disparaging appeared during the Middle Day of the Law after the passing of Buddha Awesome Sound King (Ion no). He insisted that all living beings possess the Buddha nature, and he bowed in reverence to the people he met, reciting the words of the Twenty-Four- Character Lotus Sutra: I have profound reverence for you, I would never dare treat you with disparagement or arrogance. Why? Because you are all practicing the bodhisattva way and are certain to attain Buddhahood. (Hokekyo, p. 500; The Lotus Sutra, Watson, pp. 266-267) Whether monk, nun, layman, or laywoman, all were repulsed by his practice of bowing to them in reverence. They persecuted him by speaking ill of him and cursing him, and they attacked him with staves, sticks, stones, and tiles. However, he never gave up and continuously conducted the practice of bowing in reverence. They persecuted him by speaking ill of him and cursing him, and they attacked him with staves, sticks, stones, and tiles. However, he never gave up and continuously conducted the practice of bowing in reverence. Those who had persecuted Bodhisattva Never Disparaging fell into hell once, but later, he was able to save them through their reverse relationship formed by hearing the Lotus Sutra. Bodhisattva Never Disparaging was Shakyamuni Buddha in one of his past existences. The Orally Transmitted Teachings ( Ongi kuden ) states: Although these twenty-four characters and the five characters of the mystic Law (Myoho) appear to be different, their meaning is identical. Gosho, p.1777) Today, in the midst of the Latter Day of the Law, the five characters of Myoho-Renge-Kyo preached by the Daishonin and the twenty-four characters of the Lotus Sutra preached by Bodhisattva Never Disparaging are different in regard to the entity of the Law. However, in the aspect of practice, both teachings lead to enlightenment through (Continued on page 4)
PAGE 4 MYOSETSUJI NEWS GUIDANCE FROM SIXTY-EIGHTH HIGH PRIEST NICHINYO SHONIN (CONTINUED) (Continued from page 3) the practice of sowing the seed, and the status of practitioner in both is that of the common mortal. Also, the teaching of the poison-drum relationship and the benefits of the reverse relationship are the same, because both teachings are able to save those who slander the Law. Thus, we can learn from the behavior of Bodhisattva Never Disparaging that shakubuku is the method of propagation in the Latter Day of the Law. Through the practice of shakubuku, we are able to save not only those that possess a positive relationship with the Law, but also common mortals who have a reverse relationship. We must engrave this point into our hearts. Each and every one of us must devote every effort toward this most compassionate practice for all living beings. According to the doctrine expounded in the Rissho ankoku-ron, we will be able to change ourselves, change the world, and establish the Buddha land through our absolute trust in the Dai-Gohonzon and our practice of shakubuku refuting heresy and revealing the truth. In the Rissho ankoku-ron, the Daishonin states: You must immediately renounce your erroneous belief and take faith in the supreme teaching of the one vehicle of the Lotus Sutra. Then, this entire threefold world will become the Buddha land. How could the Buddha land ever decline? All the lands in the ten directions will transform into treasure realms. How could a treasure realm ever fall to ruin? If the nation never declines and the land is indestructible, you will find safety and peace of mind. These are the very words that you must believe and revere. (Gosho, p.250; The Gosho of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 2, p. 42) We must let these golden words penetrate into our minds, so that we can understand deeply that shakubuku is the utmost way to break through today's difficult times, which are confused and disordered beyond all recognition. We must try to conduct shakubuku refuting heresy and revealing the truth without leaving a single person behind. Today, we in Nichiren Shoshu are moving forward to achieve our goals for 2015 and 2021, with unity between priesthood and Today, we in Nichiren Shoshu are moving forward to achieve our goals for 2015 and 2021, with unity between priesthood and laity, in the spirit of itai-doshin. In order to accomplish these goals, we first must achieve what is directly in front of us, and that is our shakubuku goal for this year. laity, in the spirit of itaidoshin. In order to accomplish these goals, we first must achieve what is directly in front of us, and that is our shakubuku goal for this year. Thus, each chapter must accomplish this year s shakubuku goal in order to achieve the goal set forth for all the chapters. We should try to follow the behavior of Bodhisattva Never Disparaging in his practice of bowing in reverence and preaching to the people. Likewise, we must take action in shakubuku activities vigorously, without any fear of obstacles, based on the unity of priesthood and laity and in the spirit of itai-doshin. I would like to conclude today s address with my prayer that you will be able to exert yourselves to accomplish this year s goals.
ISSUE 133 PAGE 5 THE TRUE ENTITY OF ALL PHENOMENA JUNE OKO LECTURE Strive forth in the two ways of practice and study. If practice and study are neglected, then Buddhism will cease to exist. You should practice for yourself and lead others to this teaching. Both practice and study originate from faith. You must propagate to others with all your might, even if it is only a single sentence or phrase. Good morning everyone! It is certainly worthy of respect that you have come to Myosetsuji temple to attend today s Oko ceremony not only from New York City but also from various other far away places. I believe that your deep faith and sincerity has been duly acknowledged and accepted by our True Buddha, Nichiren Daishonin. In today s Oko Ceremony, we have sincerely repaid our debt of gratitude to our founder, Nichiren Daishonin by gathering here, reciting the Lotus Sutra and chanting the Daimoku together. I have also prayed to I commend you for having traveled all this way to seek the Law. When people aspire to attain enlightenment by seeking the Law and travel to do so, they can amass the same number of benefits as the number of dust particles that make up the surface of the road on which they traveled. the Gohonzon for the further development of your faith and practice, the eradication of your negative karma, your attainment of happiness in your present and future lives and the accomplishment of our shakubuku goals. According to one of the sutras, Shakyamuni Buddha told a man who had traveled a long way with his entire family to listen to the Buddhist law the following: I commend you for having traveled all this way to seek the Law. When people aspire to attain enlightenment by seeking the Law and travel to do so, they can amass the same number of benefits as the number of dust particles that make up the surface of the road on which they traveled. And when a woman believer called Nichimyo Shonin, traveling with her infant daughter, made the long and perilous journey from Kamakura to Sado Island, Nichiren Daishonin praised her for her pure and unwavering faith as follows: What impresses me most is that, though you are a woman, you made the journey all the way here. (Omit) One s devotion is manifested in one s willingness to travel great distances. And now for us, 730 years since Nichiren Daishonin s passing, going on Tozan to the Head Temple Taisekiji and having an audience with the Dai- Gohonzon of the High Sanctuary of True Buddhism is equivalent to meeting with Nichiren Daishonin in person. Having said this, as a matter of fact, it is not easy to visit the Head Temple in Japan many times throughout the year. But if we make efforts to see the wooden Joju Gohonzon at Myosetsuji Temple, carrying the same feeling as we do when we visit the Head Temple, I believe that we can receive the boundless benefits of the mystic Law and our (Continued on page 6)
PAGE 6 MYOSETSUJI NEWS THE TRUE ENTITY OF ALL PHENOMENA JUNE OKO LECTURE (CONTINUED) (Continued from page 5) life conditions will open and be elevated without fail. We recite the following sutra passage from the Juryo Chapter of the Lotus Sutra during our daily gongyo: They will harbor a longing and will thirst to gaze upon the Buddha. (Shin ne ren-bo. Katsu-go o butsu) As the sutra passage indicates, faith means single-mindedly yearning to see the Gohonzon, the embodiment of the Buddhahood possessed by the Buddha, without harboring the slightest doubt. Practice signifies to faithfully adhere to and carry out the Buddha s teachings specifically in order to achieve happiness for oneself and for others. This is just as was in the case of the man who made the long journey with his family to listen to the teachings of Shakyamuni Buddha, or as Nichimyo Shonin who visited Nichiren Daishonin at Sado Island with her small daughter. And study shows our efforts to learn and understand Buddhism correctly. Since olden times, it has been taught in Nichiren Shoshu, First comes faith; second comes practice; and third comes study (ichi-shin, ni-gyo, san-gaku). The three fundamentals of faith, practice, and study are essential to correctly uphold our faith in true Buddhism and none of these should be lacking. However, we must bear in mind that faith must be the basis of all three, as the Daishonin teaches us: What we call faith is nothing extraordinary. As a woman cherishes her husband, as a man will give his life for his wife, as parents will not abandon their children, or as a child refuses to leave his mother, so should we put our trust in the Lotus Sutra Both practice and study originate from faith. Our faith in the Gohonzon is the basic requirement for entering the Buddhist practice and the foundation for our enlightenment. So what kind of mental attitude should we have to keep our faith in the Gohonzon? Nichiren Daishonin explains the meaning of faith for us in an easily understandable way: What we call faith is nothing extraordinary. As a woman cherishes her husband, as a man will give his life for his wife, as parents will not abandon their children, or as a child refuses to leave his mother, so should we put our trust in the Lotus Sutra, Shakyamuni, Taho, and all the Buddhas and bodhisattvas of the ten directions, as well as the heavenly gods and benevolent deities, and chant Nam-myohorenge-kyo. This is what is meant by faith. I think it is necessary for us to always reflect on the state of our faith to see - if we have such a pure and unconditional faith in the Gohonzon as described in this Gosho quote - or not. When we keep such a pure faith and perform the practice of gongyo, chanting and shakubuku as well as visiting our local temple, going on Tozan to the Head Temple, offering gokuyo and transmitting Buddhism to our children, then the blessings and protection of the Gohonzon will manifest in our body and mind and will even extend to our children and family. And it is especially impor- (Continued on page 7)
ISSUE 133 PAGE 7 THE TRUE ENTITY OF ALL PHENOMENA JUNE OKO LECTURE (CONTINUED) (Continued from page 6) tant to not only practice for oneself but to propagate the Law for others to the fullest extent of our abilities according to our circumstances as the Daishonin urges us: You should practice for yourself and lead others to this teaching. and, You must propagate to others with all your might, even if it is only a single sentence or phrase. Nichiren Daishonin also encourages us: Teach others clearly as I have taught you these many years. Those who call themselves my disciples and practice the Lotus Sutra should all practice as I do. If they do so, Shakyamuni, Taho and all the Buddhas of the ten directions as well as the Ten Goddesses will protect them. Nichiren Daishonin propagated the great law of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo without begrudging his life to enable all people in the world to attain enlightenment. As his disciples and believers, when we meet the Buddha s true will and expectation by propagating this law for its eternal perpetuation and Kosen-rufu, we will be protected by the Gohonzon. We can surely feel the protection of the Gohonzon through our faith in the Gohonzon and our sincere practice. Then we will start to have a genuine desire to know more about Nichiren Daishonin s Buddhism. This special feeling can lead us to study. By studying Buddhism, we can develop true faith that is devoid of egotistical views or doubts. We can also obtain correct knowledge as to why Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is the great law that is appropriate for the Latter Day of the Law, why Nichiren Shoshu alone is the school of True Buddhism of legitimate lineage and so forth. When our understanding of Buddhism grows, it will help us not to become distracted even when we encounter evil influences and to overcome any difficulties by becoming the master of our minds instead of letting our unfocused The sound of Lotus Sutra recitation echoed to the blue sky and the words expounding the single vehicle were heard among the mountains. and deluded minds master us. But we must remember that it is important for us to follow the guidance of our High Priest who has received the transmission of the true lineage of Buddhism. This is the way for us to correctly learn and understand Buddhism, because it is so extensive and profound. Nichiren Daishonin teaches us: It is difficult to understand this sutra without the transmission of the Law. We cannot reach a correct understanding of Nichiren Shoshu Buddhism if we stray from the true heritage of the Law that has been passed down from Nichiren Daishonin to Nikko Shonin, from Nikko Shonin to Nichimoku Shonin and through the successive High Priests to the current 68 th High Priest, Nichinyo Shonin. We should actively participate in various ceremonies like today s Oko ceremony and activities at our Myosetsuji temple with our pure seeking minds. This enables us to correctly study and understand Buddhism and receive the blessings and merits of the Gohonzon. After Nichiren Daishonin came back from Sado Island, he nurtured more than one hundred disciples at Mt. Minobu to prepare for the eternal perpetuation of the Law. One of the Goshos describes what their practices were like back then, as follows: The sound of Lotus Sutra recitation echoed to the blue sky and the words expounding the single vehicle were heard among the mountains. I earnestly hope that just like this Gosho quote, many Hokkeko members can gather together at our Myosetsuji, chant daimoku with one voice and promote the great virtue of the Gohonzon by actively sharing this Buddhism with others. (Continued on page 8)
PAGE 8 MYOSETSUJI NEWS THE TRUE ENTITY OF ALL PHENOMENA JUNE OKO LECTURE (CONTINUED) (Continued from page 7) Let s carefully read the Nichiren Shoshu Monthly magazine, Myosetsuji s Newsletter, the English and Chinese Rissho Ankoku-ron, the Basic Terminology book translated and published by the Overseas Department, and attend the study meetings of the High Priest s guidance held at Manhattan Branch every other week. These are also important and useful for our correct study. We can strengthen our faith while we are making constant efforts in study. We can realize that our practice and study originate from our faith and again return to faith. Faith, practice and study influence one another and keep moving forward just like a revolving wheel. Any one of these should not be lacking or stagnate. Some people may say, I believe in the Gohonzon in my heart though I never do gongyo and chant. This doesn t really count as believing. Others may say, I can t practice Buddhism because I am so busy in my work. But I will start to do gongyo and go to the temple after I retire. I can say that people who don t determine to practice now will not be able to do so in the future either. Or there are people who like to study Buddhism. They must realize that studying Buddhism must be accompanied by both faith and practice. If they lack faith and practice, they will never be able to obtain a correct understanding and benefits. We should know that the purpose of studying Buddhism is to strengthen our faith and practice and achieve our happiness. Even one who accumulates vast knowledge about Buddhism like scholars or professors, will not achieve happiness unless he or she has faith and practices the Buddhist teachings. If only you chant Nammyoho-renge-kyo, then what offense could fail to be eradicated? What blessing could fail to come? This is the truth, and it is of great profundity. You should believe and accept it." We, Nichiren Shoshu priests, always instill in our hearts and minds this month s Gosho quote since we became novices at the age of twelve. It was the daily custom of student priests at the Head Temple to read this Gosho passage followed by the daimoku three times, before meals. Both priests and Hokkeko members should try our best to become capable individuals with the virtues of faith, practice and study for Kosen-rufu. Nichiren Daishonin teaches us: If only you chant Nam-myohorenge-kyo, then what offense could fail to be eradicated? What blessing could fail to come? This is the truth, and it is of great profundity. You should believe and accept it." I would like to conclude my Oko lecture by offering my encouragement to all of you to continue your journey of faith to achieve your enlightenment and Kosen-rufu, always chanting the daimoku under the clear sky of Itai-doshin, with eyes of faith, legs of practice and a map of study whether it is during joyous moments, happy times, sad times, or during hardships. Thank you very much for your attention.
ISSUE 133 PAGE 9 BROOKLYN AREA REPORT ELIZABETH HUNTE, COORDINATOR Brooklyn continues to be an international area where we are learning about different cultures from each other. In February 2012, five of our members attended the Otanjo-e Tozan, and for one member this was her first Tozan. She had been practicing for only one year. At this ceremony we were able to chant together with our High Priest Nichinyo Shonin, outside in front of the 5-story Pagoda at Head Temple, Taisekiji. Afterwards we were served soy beans and candy. During this Tozan our Koto, Dennis Haggerty, suggested that Brooklyn have a Family Day. On Sunday May 20th, 2012 we had our first Brooklyn Hokkeko Family Day at Prospect Park. It was a gorgeous sunny day. 14 people attended and 4 of them were guests. We were able to sample authentic cuisines like curry salt-fish with channa, puri, and good old chicken wings (our favorite). Members are already talking about having another Family Day before the summer is over. Even though our members are busy with their families, work, etc, they make a special effort to attend activities at our Temples and in the area. Brooklyn members are strong and passionate and we are determined to have a successful shakubuku campaign where we take special care of our new members. We have even passed the half-way point of our shakubuku goal of 11 new happy people. Following the directions of our Chief Priest Rev Takikawa, we have started a movement of visiting new and inactive members. Brooklyn is growing and growing up. We are accomplishing our dreams with the Gohonzon in the center of our lives. Last August, at Rev Takikawa's first visit to Brooklyn, we had 30 people in attendance. This was the first time we had so many members attend our area meeting. Last year our motto was ONE PERSON BRING ONE PERSON. We will continue with that motto until every active member is bringing one person to an activity. Vice-coordinators, Nestor Ramos, Sharon McKenzie, I, and all the members in Brooklyn would like to express our appreciation for all the continued support that we have received from everyone.
PAGE 10 MYOSETSUJI NEWS MEMBER EXPERIENCE JULIEN TORNELLI Hello, my name is Julien Tornelli. I am 10 years old and have lived in Williamsburg, Brooklyn all of my life. I have been practicing Nichiren Shoshu Buddhism all of my life too, since my parents are both Temple members. I would like to share my experience of how chanting helped me this year in school. I am about to graduate from my elementary school that I have gone to since I was four years old. In New York City, Fifth Grade is a very challenging and intense year, since there are both very important State Tests to take, and also because you have to apply to go to Middle Schools. For many months, there is a lot of pressure to study for the exams, take practice tests, and do lots of homework to get ready for two weeks of testing. All through it, I made my best effort to do Gongyo and chant as much daimoku as possible, which really helped me to be calm and focused. Because I am a singer and I love acting, I was really hoping to find a middle school that has arts programs and that would be a good fit for me. My mom and I spent a lot of time doing research, going on tours and making applications. All of the schools I really liked wanted me to take an audition, so I then spent the next few months finding, working on, and practicing music to sing and a monologue to act. My top choice was the Professional Performing Arts School, or PPAS. I loved it so much, and I tried my very best the day of my audition. I knew the school only took about 24 kids for the whole grade, but I really chanted that I could be one of them. A few weeks later, I found out that I got a call back audition! I was so excited, and I kept on working on my song and acting, and chanting and doing Gongyo every day to help me reach my goal of being able to go there. I really enjoyed my second audition, and I felt great about how I did. During this time, I had a chance to have guidance with Reverend Mitani, just before he left Myosetsuji. He told me all about his own experience when he was trying to decide which school to go to when he was around my age. It was so helpful and encouraging to me, and he gave me such good advice, that I knew that no matter what happened, everything would be fine. One day after a meeting at the Flushing Temple, my mom asked me to come sit with her in the front row. She told me that she had some news for me, but it wasn t what I was hoping to hear - I didn t get in to PPAS. I have to admit, in that moment I was really sad. But after a few minutes, I knew that after all my chanting, everything would work out for the best. So, after waiting a few more weeks, I found out that I was accepted to a school in Brooklyn that I had also really loved, called Arts & Letters. There are so many great things about it, and I was really, really happy when I found out that s where I ll be going. In fact, when we went back to the school for orientation and a great fun festival, I got to meet a lot of the students I ll be going to school with, and that s when I realized after all, that this is really the very best school for me. I am determined to keep on chanting every day, always trying to do better Gongyo, and to come to the Temple as much as possible to listen to our Priest s guidance!
ISSUE 133 MYOSETSUJI NEWS MEMBER EXPERIENCE KAREN YOUNG My name is Karen Young and I have been chanting Nam Myoho Renge Kyo to the Gohonzon for over 2 years. Before I was introduced to Buddhism, a lot was going on in my life. I was divorced, I lost my home and a host of other things were going on. I was alone in New York, struggling, I was about to lose my job due to budget cuts. I was not getting any responses to my resumes. Then on top of everything my mom was suffering from Alzheimer s. My oldest daughter was not doing much with her life and my grandson was suffering academically. My youngest wanted to go to college but with my job situation I couldn t think how to make that happen for her. I moved my oldest in with my mom to help because we couldn t leave her alone anymore...well she would wake up some mornings and kick my daughter out of the house because she didn t know who she was. I was scared for my mom, worried about my children and my grandson. I was also angry that I couldn t fix things. I guess all of that anger and fear made me pretty confrontational and quick to argue or react to whatever someone said or did to me. I looked angry, I drove angry, I was just angry! Finally, I met a friend and she introduced me to Buddhism. I didn t know what to expect. I was told that there would be many changes in my life. At first, I was like, what change? First, I became a member and then I received the Gohonzon in August 2010. When I began to chant consistently is when things started to change, but at the same time it seemed like old stuff was coming back to haunt me. I cried a lot can you imagine meeting this angry emotional black woman. I called the same friend that introduced me to the practice; she was positive and motivating but I really didn t understand her calmness...crying, I said you don t understand I feel like I am losing my mind! She told me that as I start chanting it would be like stirring a muddy pond. All that bad karma that had settled at the bottom of the pond (so to speak) is coming to the surface. She encouraged me to keep chanting so that I could eradicate all that bad karma. She encouraged me to keep chanting with unconditional faith. So I did just that. Well, one day I was on facebook and I saw that one of my former supervisors had posted pictures of his fabulous trip in Paris. I thought...should I contact him and interrupt his trip with business yes! I need a job so I asked him for an interview. He responded promptly and told me as soon as he gets back we could meet and the interview would just be a formality. I think back to what the priest said, Don t look at your problems like you are looking up at the Empire State building, instead look at your problems like you are looking down from the sky. I have a new job now which I love. My mom today lives in Atlanta, Georgia with my sister. My oldest daughter has joined my sister in her catering company. My grandson is doing well in school, and my youngest made it to college. I have learned that what someone does to me is their karma, but how I react, is my karma. I listen more deeply without judging or reacting. Of course there were and still are forces that test me, but I keep telling myself, don t change, keep chanting and keep my faith. The Gohonzon is real. I tell everyone about Buddhism and I have even noticed that the change in me has made my friends and family members interested to hear what I have to say about this practice. Hopefully soon one of them will become a member. Thank you.
PAGE 12 MYOSETSUJI NEWS MEMBER EXPERIENCE YOLANDA MAXINE MATTHEWS My name is Yolanda Maxine Matthews. I have practiced to the Gohonzon since June 22, 1983. I now have practiced Nichiren Shoshu Buddhism for 29 years, chanting Nam- Myoho-Renge-Kyo to the Gohonzon. I owe my debt of gratitude to my father and mother. When I was in my mother's womb, my father, Leon Leonard Matthews, chanted to the Dai- Gohonzon before he went to the Korean War. He was stationed in Japan at that time, in the 1950's. He chanted for his baby to be born healthy. I was in my mother's womb at that time. My father returned home safely in time to see the birth of his daughter, Yolanda Maxine Matthews. While growing up I was always in and out of the hospital. I would hear my family complain that they could not enjoy the holidays because I would always mess it up. In 1983, on my way to the hospital in New York City on East 70th Street, I met Mrs. Annabell Turner. She asked me if I ever heard of Nam-Myoho-Renge- Kyo and I replied, yes, my neighbor plays it every day. She said, that's not a song, it is a Buddhist chant that can help you. Well, I have cancer," I said. She told me that I can chant to overcome the cancer. Mrs. Turner said, Life is like a water hose. When you turn and open it all the rusty water comes out first, then the clean water comes: when you chant your life will change for the better." So on June 22 of 1983 I chanted the words Nam- Myoho-Renge-Kyo and was able to receive my Gohonzon. I felt so good; there was hope for me and my children. I had two children at that time, Aristotle Evans and La-Vitta Evans. On September 14th of 1983 I went to the hospital where I was scheduled for surgery. When my doctor told me that I would be in the hospital for 1 month I told him that I wanted to be home on September 17, that Saturday. He also told me that I would not be able to have any more children after the surgery. He then ordered more tests to be done before the surgery. He returned with 10 other doctors, they could not believe the results. He asked what type of diet I was on and to whom did I pray. I told them that I was a Buddhist. All 10 doctors agreed that there was a small amount of cancer on my left ovary. They all asked me to please take the tests over again. The results were the same. I called a member and told her what had happened; she said that it was the POWER OF THE GOHONZON. I chanted to go home on September 17. My doctor came into my hospital room on the morning of September 17 and told me that I could go home but on bed rest. I went to my sister's home; she was having a birthday party for my niece who was 1 year old that Saturday. When I arrived everyone thought that I had signed myself out, so I showed them my discharge papers. My surgery was successful. On December 15, 1994 at mid-night was the first time that my father told me that he had chanted to the Dai-Gohonzon when he was stationed in Japan. He was killed the same morning on I-95 in a car accident at 7:30am. I did not know that that would be the last time we would talk to each other. He told me to take care of myself because he knew that I took care of everyone else. He also asked me to take care of his sister, Pecolia. He told me to be happy and I answered, "OK, I will." I told my father that I had become a Nichiren Shoshu Buddhist and that I chanted Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo. My father told me to keep up the good work. This is why I owe my debt of gratitude to the Buddha, the Law, the High Priest, the Chief Priest, the Assistant Priest, my parents and the members too. Nine years later I gave birth to a son, my son's name is Ernesto Matthews and he is now 24 years old. I am cancer free in 2012, THANK YOU GOHONZON FOR SAVING MY LIFE. We have Itai- Doshin. Thank you very much. I will continue to practice for myself and others.
URABON CEREMONY July 14th & 15th 2012 The Venerable Maudgalyayana put his faith in the Lotus Sutra, which is the greatest good there is, and thus not only did he himself attain Buddhahood, but his father and mother did so as well. Not only that, but all the fathers and mothers of the preceding seven generations and the seven generations that followed, indeed, of countless lifetimes before and after, were able to attain Buddhahood, amazing as it may seem. On the Urabon - MWND, Vol. VII, p. 172 Since the early days of Buddhism, the Urabon Ceremony is a time set aside for people to pray for the peace and happiness of the deceased. Since no single part of the universe is separate from all of the rest, Buddhism teaches that we must help the insentient world achieve enlightenment, too. Most important, however, we ourselves must first attain enlightenment through our practice to the Gohonzon, so as to remove the delusions afflicting us in the Latter Day of the Law. We send the benefits of enlightenment to the deceased to ease their present suffering and ensure that they may be reborn in a high life condition. This is the significance of the Urabon Ceremony. To request Toba Memorial Tablets, please complete the application below and return it to the Temple by July 8th with the appropriate Gokuyo. Please Print Clearly NAME OF APPLICANT NAME OF DECEASED Flushing Temple Manhattan Branch Gokuyo for Tobas ($10.00 ea.) General Gokuyo (if any)
Open Close Monday - Friday 7:20 AM 9:00 AM Re-opens on Mon/Tues/Fri 6:00 PM 8:30 PM Sunday & Holidays 9:00 AM 3:30 PM Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Long Island Cleanup 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Kosen-rufu Chanting 10 AM Gongyo Gongyo Gongyo Gongyo Gongyo Flushing Temple Closed Evening Gongyo 2:30 PM 7:30 AM 7:30 AM 7:30 AM 7:30 AM 7:30 AM Chanting Mtg Chanting Mtg Chanting Mtg Myosetsuji Temple July 2012 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM Queens Cleanup 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Drum Practice 9:00-9:45 AM Gongyo Gongyo Gongyo Gongyo Gongyo Flushing Temple Closed Oko Ceremony 10 AM 7:30 AM 7:30 AM 7:30 AM 7:30 AM 7:30 AM Support Staff Mtg 12:30 PM Chanting Mtg Chanting Mtg Chanting Mtg Evening Gongyo 2:30 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM New Jersey Cleanup 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 Urabon Ceremony 10 AM Gongyo Gongyo Gongyo Gongyo Gongyo Flushing Temple Closed Chinese Oko 12:30 PM 7:30 AM 7:30 AM 7:30 AM 7:30 AM 7:30 AM Evening Gongyo 2:30 PM Chanting Mtg Chanting Mtg Chanting Mtg 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM Westchester Cleanup 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Introductory Mtg 10 AM Gongyo Gongyo Gongyo Gongyo Gongyo Flushing Temple Closed Korean/Japanese Oko 12:30 PM 7:30 AM 7:30 AM 7:30 AM 7:30 AM 7:30 AM Evening Gongyo 2:30 PM Chanting Mtg Chanting Mtg Chanting Mtg 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM Long Island Cleanup 29 30 31 Gongyo 10 AM Gongyo Gongyo Evening Gongyo 2:30 PM 7:30 AM 7:30 AM Chanting Mtg Chanting Mtg 7:00 PM 7:00 PM We will chant 1 hour Shodai for all Sunday Temple ceremonies and 1 hour with Evening Gongyo on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays.
Open Close 4:00 PM 8:30 PM Mon/Tues/Thurs/Fri Wednesday/Sunday Closed Saturday Manhattan Branch July 2012 9:00 AM 3:00 PM Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 No Broadcast 5 6 7 ***Saturday, June 30th will be Hokkeko Koto Manhattan Chanting Chanting Mtg Uptown Cleanup Kosen-rufu Chanting Chanting Mtg Chanting Mtg Temple Closed 6:30-7:00 PM 7:00 PM Oko Ceremony 10:00 AM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM Intro Mtg Evening Gongyo 2:00 PM 7:00 PM 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Manhattan Hokkeko Study Mtg Manhattan Chanting Chanting Mtg Midtown Cleanup Temple Closed Chanting Mtg 7:00 PM Temple Closed 6:30-7:00 PM 7:00 PM Urabon 10 AM 7:00 PM Intro Mtg Evening Gongyo 2:00 PM 7:00 PM 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 Manhattan Hokkeko Koto Manhattan Chanting Chanting Mtg Bronx Cleanup Temple Closed Chanting Mtg Chanting Mtg Temple Closed 6:30-7:00 PM 7:00 PM Gongyo 10:00 AM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM Intro Mtg Evening Gongyo 2:00 PM 7:00 PM 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Manhattan Hokkeko Study Mtg Manhattan Chanting Chanting Mtg Brooklyn Cleanup Temple Closed Chanting Mtg 7:00 PM Temple Closed 6:30-7:00 PM 7:00 PM Gongyo 10:00 AM 7:00 PM Intro Mtg Evening Gongyo 2:00 PM 7:00 PM 29 30 31 Manhattan Hokkeko Koto Temple Closed Chanting Mtg Chanting Mtg 7:00 PM 7:00 PM We will chant 1 hour Shodai for all Saturday ceremonies and 1 hour with Evening Gongyo on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays.
NICHIREN SHOSHU MYOSETSUJI TEMPLE 143-63 Beech Ave. (Entrance on Parsons Blvd.) Flushing, NY 11355 (718) 961 7269 MANHATTAN BRANCH TEMPLE 402 West 40th Street New York, NY 10018 VISIT US ONLINE AT: WWW.NSTNY.ORG SUBSCRIBE TO THE NICHIREN SHOSHU MONTHLY MAGAZINE TODAY! UPCOMING EVENTS: URABON MEMORIAL CEREMONY July 14th & 15th Toba Application on Page 13 MYOSETSUJI TEMPLE 143-63 Beech Ave. Flushing, NY 11355 Rev. Shinga Takikawa, Chief Priest Rev. Josetsu Iwakiri, Assistant Priest