SGI Watch

Heavy Karma

2011-09-11T19:28:00.000-04:00

The Capital Region held it's Commemorative MD/YMD meeting today at the Mt Rainier Community Center. The meeting, which had been postponed from an August date, commemorates the day that President Ikeda joined the Soka Gakkai.

There was an excellent experience in which the member said his failed business was the fault of his own inattention. Following the guidance of a senior leader he determined to strengthen his faith and to succeed in his daily life. He became successful and, now retired, is determined to continue his strong practice of Nichiren Buddhism.

The meeting went downhill from there. A skit was presented that seemed to place life problems on a person's karma. Really? Isn't blaming karma looking backward rather than forward. True, overcoming obstacles can change our bad karma but the real objective is to overcome the obstacles that we encounter in our daily life.

Not much YMD support for this meeting. Not much YMD attendance. All things considered, it was not a great meeting.;

The Two Ways of Practice and Study

2011-05-05T10:02:00.000-04:00

It has been said that without study there can be no Buddhism. Over the past few years SGI-USA has been promoting President Ikeda's lectures in Living Buddhism as the vehicle of study. I wonder, is this the best/only way to conduct study? SGI-USA is currently wrapping up the Essentials Exam. The study guide for this did include some terms, a Soka Spirit article, and some info about Nichiren Daishonin.

The zone/area has been conducting gosho prep lectures based upon the current President Ikeda lecture in Living Buddhism. These lectures have been presented to district leaders by zone and region leaders. They have been savored by some, denigrated by others (me).

These prep lectures take a lot of time absorb the information and to organize as I have discovered in my attempts to present something of value to the members. It appears that zone/region pre-prep lecturers don't have sufficient time to properly prepare. They resort to highlighting various passages of President Ikeda's written lecture, reading those parts, and pronounce themselves extremely encouraged.

SGI President Daisaku Ikeda's 2011 Peace Proposal

2011-02-18T14:31:00.000-05:00

Every year, SGI President Ikeda publishes a peace proposal which explores the interrelation between core Buddhist concepts and the diverse challenges global society faces in the effort to realize peace and human security. In addition, he has also made proposals touching on issues such as education reform, the environment and the United Nations.

An excerpted transaltion of the 2011 Peace Proposal is available at daisakuikeda.org. Or follow the link below.

Toward a World of Dignity for All: The Triumph of the Creative Life (2011)

A synopsis of the 2010 Peace Proposal ( and others) is also available at that site. The full proposal (it's a biggy) can be downloaded.

SGI USA:The Early Years

2011-02-16T16:20:00.000-05:00

Every once in a while I get to thinking about the good old NSA days. Many members who haven't practiced for a long time might not be familiar with the beginning. One early leader who has apparently fallen from grace is Masayasu Sadanaga who later changed his name to George Williams. Many very senior leaders of Japanese origin changed their name as well but later reverted to their original name. Here are a couple of links which try to tell the story. There's more - google Masayasu Sadanaga.

Frank Ross Story

About George Williams

David Kasahara Memorial

2011-02-14T15:21:00.000-05:00

A memorial service for David Kasahara was held on Saturday 12 February in New York. There was a nationwide video hookup. Senior Leaders Danny Nagashima, Linda Johnson and others were in attendance.

David Masahiko Kasahara was born on January 27, 1936, in Shimonoseki, Japan. He was the second of five children and the first son to his parents, Fumiko and Kunihiko. David was a sophomore at Waseda University in Japan when his studies were interrupted by his father's untimely death. He took on odd jobs to support his mother and siblings. Although leaving college might have seemed a hardship, it allowed him the time to re-ignite his interest in studying dance.

In March of 1964, he came to the United States, landing in San Francisco and then moving on to New York, to pursue his dream of becoming a professional dancer.

He was introduced to Nichiren Buddhism in February of 1966. He met his wife, Patricia, in January of 1970 and they married later that year on October 10. He and Patricia had three children, George, Margaret and John. In December of 1971 (the same month as the birth of his first child), David became an SGI-USA staff member. He worked in SGI centers in New York until he was asked to take on the Executive Directorship of the SGI-USA Florida Nature & Culture Center in May of 2000.

David completed his mission as an SGI-USA staff member with his retirement, at the age of 66, in June of 2002. He then moved back to New York and continued to lead an extremely active and value-creative life, doing anything he could to support the members and family he loved so dearly, always keeping his mentor President Ikeda's spirit in his heart.

His vibrant energy and never-ending passion to do anything to support others made it difficult to believe that he was anything but 100% healthy. After being admitted to the hospital on January 18th, he fought valiantly for 10 days, defying all odds and continuing to bewilder the doctors and nurses. He passed away peacefully on January 28, 2011, one day after his 75th birthday. He will be deeply missed by his family and the countless people whose lives he has touched with his wise, loving and compassionate heart.

Lecture Series by Mr. Morinaka

2011-02-11T22:21:00.000-05:00

Check this out! A recent SGI USA memo outlines a series of lectures by Soka Gakkai Study Department Chief Masaaki Morinaka to be made available to Area thru National leaders only. Seems quite restrictive.

Click here to read the memo.

Daisaku Ikeda's 2011 Peace Proposal

2011-02-11T12:43:00.000-05:00

Daisaku Ikeda Calls for Progress on Abolition of Nuclear Weapons, Building Global Human Rights Culture.

Peace Proposal Synopsis

World Peace Gongyo

2011-02-07T12:50:00.000-05:00

World Peace Gongyo was held at 10am at Mt Rainier Community Center on Sunday 6 Feb. The main attraction, of course, was the 45th Headquarters Leaders meeting video. Before that we were treated to another video promoting the May contribution (and it's only February). The first part was an experience by a long practicing member about her contribution activity. Although senior leaders repeatedly remind us that contribution is about our sincere desire to support kosenrufu and not about receiving benefits, I inferred from the experience that she believes that her contributions resulted in great benefit. Most contribution experiences are like that. I don't think that you can buy your way to happiness. Matilda said that it's appropriate that she should be the main cog in the contribution wheel because he last name is Buck.

Nationwide Leaders Meet

2011-02-07T12:37:00.000-05:00

Saturday 5 Feb a nationwide teleconference took place. Morning in Hawaii, afternoon on the east coast. We were in the Mt Rainier Community Center to listen by audio hookup. Attendance seemed to be kind of poor. Due to technical difficulties we missed most of Linda Johnson's spiel about the wd/ywd coffee clatch to take place on 27 Feb. Tariq Hasan, recently back from a Japan training sessin, passed on Mr. Hasagawa's guidance to that group. Nathan Gauer talked about how the Rock the Era movement willrock on un til the 100th anniversary in 2030. There was a report about the October exam - 90% passed. Matilda Buck talked about the May contribution drive (and it's only February, got to gin up support early). Danny Nagashima, who had the good fortune of being in Hawaii, after asking if everyone was happy and receiving cheers from the audience, talked about President Ikeda's three points for successful districts which were in his essay in the 1 Jan WT.

Details are sketchy. The audio was extremely poor making the whole thing mostly unintelligible. But never fear. The whole thing will be on line on 9 Feb on the SGI USA web site.

World Tribune - Subscribe or Die?

2011-02-03T22:56:00.001-05:00

During the January pre-prep lecture, presented by Greg Martin, he made a rather impassioned plea for World Tribune and Living Buddhism, saying that, if one were serious about attaining happiness in this life, it would be necessary to subscribe to these publications. Really?

Suppose one is a single parent, unemployed, down to the last 35 bucks. Subscribe to the World Tribune or feed the kids? What would you do?

SGI publications are not high on the mail service priority list. They come late, sometimes out of sequence, sometimes not at all. Subscribing is hit or miss.

If the information is so important why isn't it on line where people can get it on a regular timely basis. Is happiness only for those who can afford to pay?

These lectures are supposed to be about President Ikeda's written lectures. President Ikeda didn't say that you must subscribe to publications. January's material was the third installment of 'On Practicing the Buddha's Teachings'. It's mostly about shakubuku, not subscribing to publications.

Nichiren Daishonin said that to overcome the sufferings of life and death what one should do is chant Nam Myoho Renge Kyo.

Otherwise, it was an excellent presentation.

Study pre-prep

2011-02-02T22:47:00.000-05:00

The Jan and Feb pre-prep lectures on the SGI-USA web site are presented by Greg Martin. It's good. Welcome back Greg!

David Kasahara

2011-01-28T21:02:00.002-05:00

Mr. David Kasahara, one of the great leaders of American Kosen-rufu, passed away peacefully at 2:45 PM EST with his family chanting daimoku by his side.

The family wants to offer their deep appreciation to everyone for the tremendous daimoku that was chanted and the great love and compassion every one has shown over the past week.

Roadmap?

2011-01-17T11:17:00.000-05:00

SGI President Ikeda's collected lectures in the book My Dear Friends in America is not available in the SGI-USA bookstore. General Director Nagashima has declared this to be SGI-USA's roadmap for the future. I guess we'll be driving aimlessly.

A Roadmap for the Future

2011-01-07T22:20:00.000-05:00

Well, here we are in 2011. Happy New Year! It's the Year of Capable People and Dynamic Development. We could also call it the Year of Sameness. See the 12 November World Tribune for an article about the October SGI-USA Central Executive Committee and Executive Council (What a mouthful).

Still at the helm is Mr. Excitement, Danny Nagashima.

Calendar revolution!?

On the horizon for 2011 is a succession of monthly district meetings and monthly 'study' meetings, with the same go getem style of leadership. One difference that I saw is the de-emphasis of monthly focus such as Women's Division month in February and the August Men's Division month. Also, the annual contribution period has been shortened by a week (it will be April 28 - June 5).

SGI-USA study has little to do with learning about Buddhist philosophy; it's more about getting on the bandwagon of 'mentor and disciple'. The January prep lecture for chapter leaders is a case in point. A YMD and a YWD leader shared 'lecture' responsibility. It was a pretty ho-hum affair with readings of various points in President Ikeda's written lecture and desultory comments by the lecturers. It was mostly about how we have to make a vow for shakubuku and following the mentor and disciple relationship. That's what almost all the lectures in 2010 were about. Bright spots were provided in a few instances by Bill Aiken. But he seems to have abandoned the prep lectures in favor of youth division presenters. Bill! Come back Bill!

President Ikeda's My Dear Friends in America appears to be the new bible for supporting activities. In his closing words to the CEC, General Director Nagashima spoke of President Ikeda's 1990 address "Cultivate a New Common Sense". In it President Ikeda talked about how Thomas Paine's small, 50 page pamphlet Common Sense altered the destiny of America during its struggle for independence.

President Ikeda elaborates: "When the long entrenched barriers of 'common sense' people's hearts are broken down, a new common sense, borne on the wings of lively dialog, begins to take shape. This signifies the beginning of a new era and of fundamental change in society".

Mr. Nagashima called My Dear Friends in America our version of Common Sense. "This", he said, "is our roadmap for the future."

Where's George Williams?

2010-08-19T16:43:00.000-04:00

I recently received an anonymous comment to a posting I made in 2006 wondering whatever happened to George Williams. There has never been a public discourse on this, which is odd, since SGI prides itself on dialog. But I have heard some comments here and there alluding to Mr. Williams defection to Nichiren Shoshu Temple. Tariq Hasan, SGI-USA East Territory Leader, responded to a question about this from a member at a leaders meeting that he attended at the Mt. Rainier Community Center. He said that at a FNCC Men's Division conference last year (2009) SGI-USA General Director Danny Nagashima responded to a question from a conference attendee. His response alluded to the offer of a great deal from then NST chief priest Nikken Abe promising great rewards if he would defect from SGI-USA and bring many members with him. Although I do not have any knowledge of this event, it seems to have not worked to well since the great majority of SGI-USA members stayed with SGI-USA. Hooray!

GW has, I guess, become pesona non grata within SGI. He is never mentioned. It's as if he never existed. And yet, many of today's senior leaders, and many ordinary members as well, began their practice under his leadership. It seems to me that he is an important part of the SGI-USA history but his story will never be told.

President Ikeda's Message to the CEC

2010-01-12T18:37:00.002-05:00

To my most respected and beloved fellow members who are serving on the SGI-USA Central Executive Committee!

I deeply appreciate your efforts in holding this conference to continue your victorious progress toward next year! When all of you, as leaders, shoulder overall responsibility and maintain solid unity, you can open a path to victory for tens of thousands of generations to come. Watching over you from here in Japan, I am deeply praying that your meeting will be bright and meaningful.

Next year marks the 50th anniversary since I made my first steps in America, the land I chose as the pivotal point of our global kosen-rufu movement. Thanks to your noble, tireless efforts in blazing an unexplored, virgin trail for worldwide kosen-rufu, our quest has been fulfilled to the point that we have proudly constructed many great castles of the Law around the world as evidence of the dynamic growth of our movement.

At this point, what matters most is "leadership revolution." Each of you is a vital pillar of kosen-rufu. That pillar must never fall, no matter what happens. Unless you wholeheartedly make a fresh determination now and grow significantly, you will not be able to open a new era. I ask you to become people who are trusted even more than before. Toward this end, you should base your lives on the oneness of mentor and disciple. You must decide that pursuing the oneness of mentor and disciple is the primary quest of your lives. You should continue to fight, especially in those areas where your mentor may not be watching, but with the same spirit as your mentor. Such dedicated disciples are surely praiseworthy. This is the supreme teaching of Buddhism.

Nikko Shonin, who walked along the true path of mentor and disciple until the very last moment of his life, strictly stated in the Twenty-six Admonitions of Nikko, "Until kosen-rufu is achieved, propagate the Law to the full extent of your ability without begrudging your life" (Gosho Zenshu, p. 1618). It is we who are single-mindedly struggling to advance toward our great desire of kosen-rufu in exact accord with our mentor's teachings without begrudging our lives. This is the spirit of the oneness of mentor and disciple. It is the eternal spirit of the Soka Gakkai. First, you must become strong, then you must help your comrades to become strong, one by one, as you advance together. I ask you to chant daimoku resonantly with courage, bringing forth the true wisdom of the essential teaching that will enable you to most effectively cope with changing circumstances, and taking the most valuable action with dauntless leadership. Let's fight together!

Every single day, I am earnestly praying that all of you, my most-trusted SGI-USA leaders, will develop splendid successors and victoriously show exemplary advancement, praising one another with the harmonious unity of many in body but one in mind. Please stay in excellent health and high spirits.

Daisaku Ikeda
October 22, 2009

Capital Region MD Toso

2009-08-22T11:20:00.002-04:00

Well, I hauled my butt out of bed Saturday morning at a very early, for me, hour to attend the MD Toso at Mt. Rainier. This event had been promoted by a Jimi Lyons/Michael Aiken email as an opportunity to meet with Tariq Hasan. When I arrived it was apparent that most of the attendees were Very Senior Leaders. Then, Tami Frazier came in and promptly bent Tariq's ear about something and a few minutes later Tariq, Tami, Damien and Ayana left the toso. About ten minutes later they returned, Tariq led a lickety-split gongyo, chanted for a few minutes, and then, after apologizing for interfering with our 'morning toso', left, followed by the VSL's. There were maybe a dozen people still there to continue chanting. This hardly seemed like an appropriate 'MD Toso'. It was probably my last.

Ken Hodge had previously lamented that attendance at these toso's wasn't very good. Gee. I wonder why.

Bonds of Tradition

2009-08-13T21:44:00.002-04:00

Is SGI-USA bound by tradition? There is a yearly cycle: February WD month, March youth month, May contribution, August shakubuku & MD month, October review and November general meeting month. It happens every year without much real leadership. It's old news.

On the other hand, line leaders could take advantage of the situation and motivate the members to greater accomplishment in their daily lives. Each individual can reap the rewards of practice regardless of leadership shortcomings.

Kazue Elliot

2009-04-19T20:39:00.001-04:00

Kazue Elliot came to America in 1958 with $25 in her pocket and an incurable illness. Her challenges in those early years are too numerous to count. So when Mrs. Elliot retired four decades later—in 1999—having surmounted tremendous difficulties, she made a firm determination to give to the annual S G I - U S A May Commemorative Contribution activity in a way she had never done before. “Without the Gohonzon, without the SGI and SGI President Ikeda,” she says, “I could not be here today. So with that appreciation, I wanted to give from my heart.”

Almsgiving is considered the first of the six paramitas, or practices, required of bodhisattvas to attain enlightenment. For longtime Buddhist practitioners such as Mrs. Elliot, the essence of contribution is not the amount, but the spirit to live with a heart of appreciation. “When you can bring out your appreciation,” she says, “your happiness gets deeper and deeper. But without appreciation, your world gets so small.”

The May Commemorative Contribution activity is a means, she says, to learn how to expand one’s heart. One year, for instance, Mrs. Elliot found it hard to meet her contribution goal. When she chanted Nam-myoho-renge-kyo about it, she realized that she had to fight against her own tendency to lose her sense of appreciation, even after years of Buddhist practice. “President Ikeda teaches us that every day is a battle between the negative functions in our heart and our Buddhahood,” she says. When we make a determination to change our lives, our negativity is bound to come up, trying to close off our heart, she explains. When she felt her heart close, she urged herself to think about others. When she shifted her focus to supporting others, she broke through her impasse and accomplished her goal. Mrs. Elliot came to the United States in 1958. Two years later, she was present when President Ikeda made his first visit to Los Angeles. She saw how he took great care to encourage the Japanese members living there. “He knew we were so poor,” says Mrs. Elliot, “but he encouraged us to learn English, get a driver’s license and become good American citizens.”

Those words gave her hope that she could build a meaningful life in the states, so she wholeheartedly followed his guidance. “When I think about how little I had when I arrived and how I was able to work for kosen-rufu in America for all these years,” she says, “I have so much appreciation for the Gohonzon and President Ikeda. Life is so different now.” For nearly 50 years, Mrs. Elliot has lived a fulfilling life in this country—an accomplishment she attributes to her Buddhist practice, her involvement in the SGI and learning from her mentor, President Ikeda. This deep sense of gratitude is what characterizes Mrs. Elliot’s approach to life. “Without appreciation, I cannot live,” she says. “And for as long as I am alive, I want to keep showing my appreciation and keep contributing to the SGI.”

Soka Spirit Towards April 24th

2009-03-27T20:38:00.000-04:00

On April 24, 1979 the Nichiren Shoshu priesthood, in conjunction with Soka Gakkai leaders who were betraying the Soka Gakkai in Japan, forced President Ikeda to step down as the third President of the Soka Gakkai in Japan.

Still though, President Ikeda remained the President of the newly created Soka Gakkai

International. He used this as a base to unite with Soka Gakkai members and fight for Justice.

For the next thirty years our mentor has continued to expand the SGI into the greatest

organization for the spread of Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism and world peace in the world today. (more information Feb 27 World Tribune, p. 7)

As this anniversary approaches, the leaders of the Mid-Atlantic Zone have determined to

encourage everyone to fight for Justice with a multi-faceted daimoku campaign to help as many temple members as possible leave the temple and rejoin the SGI.

Let's make a difference toward April 24, 2009 by solidifying our spirit and uniting to make the next four weeks an absolute success!

There are many new opportunities for Soka Spirit/Justice daimoku:

MARCH 28th, APRIL 4th, APRIL 11th and APRIL 18th.....ALL DAY SATURDAY SOKA SPIRIT DAIMOKU AT THE CULTURE CENTER FROM 9:00AM UNTIL 4:00PM

SUNDAYS: SUNDAY MORNING SOKA SPIRIT DAIMOKU SESSIONS:

DC CULTURE CENTER..... 8:00AM-9:00AM

MT. RAINIER COMMUNITY CENTER.....8:00AM-9:30AM

MONTGOMERY ACTIVITY CENTER...8:00AM-9:00AM

"Round Robin" daimoku in every region between now and April 24th and beyond to the beginning of the May Contribution Campaign. There will be coverage/sign up in each region in Mid Atlantic Zone. We will send more details on this next week.

All existing Soka Spirit daimoku sessions, for example the March and April Soka Spirit daimoku session calendars, will still take place as additional opportunities to send powerful daimoku.

New Beginning for Mid-Atlantic Zone

2009-03-01T14:50:00.002-05:00

As announced at the Zone Kickoff Meeting on 28 Feb, the Mid-Atlantic Zone has expanded to five regions: Virginia South, Virginia, Capital, Washington DC and Maryland. Region and area leaders were announced during the meeting. Prince George's Area has divided into the Central Area and the Southern Maryland Area of the Capital Region.

Leadership positions were announced as follows:

Mid-Atlantic Zone: 4-Divisional Kathy Geisler; MD Steve Wunder; Vice MD John Marchant, Bill Aiken, Steve Harvey, Mike Evers; WD Nanami Vittor; Vice WD Jo Reed, Jean Rosenberg, Jennifer Yamazawa; YMD Brian Light; Vice YMD Brian Mochizuki; YWD Nicole Walter; Vice YWD Amber Suitt.

Virginia South Region: MD Jim King; Vice MD Nate Worley; WD Thomie Williams; Vice WD Setsuko Lantz; YMD Ram Surendhranath; YWD Sharon Blythe; Member Care Keitty McIsaac.

SEVA Southside Area: MD Rick Mateo; WD Denise Williams; Vice WD Emiko Frydenlund, Phillis Lowery, Gloria Clark; YWD Michiko Tajima.

SEVA Peninsula Area: MD Sherman Smith; Vice MD Clint Wilson; WD Mona Wallace; Vice WD Michiko Lopez; YWD Tammy Williams.

Richmond Metro Area: MD Talik Taylor; WD Sabrina Llorance; Vice WD Shera Gregory; YWD Dorgas Westry; Member Care Jimmy McGhee.

Virginia Region: MD Wing Lee; Vice MD Tony Goodlette, Rich Winkler; Member Care Tom Moxon; WD Connie Downing; Vice WD Penny Parker, Brenda Carter, Takayo Yoshimachi; YMD Tommy Tomiyama; Vice YMD Eddie Quispe; YWD Sachiko Morita.

Fair Oaks Area: MD Howard Daniel; Vice MD Bob Zuelhke, Ron Seibert; WD Colleen Parks; Vice WD Isabelle Savoure; YMD Shin'ya Takemura; YWD Mitsuko Esgar.

Blue Ridge Area: MD Bill Stuard; WD Tamyra Turner; YWD Hitomi Green.

Nova South Area: MD Adam Bowser; Vice MD Jon Cummings; WD Helena Goodlette; Vice WD Eriko Kitzhaber, Fumiko Dolan, Noriko Detrich; YMD Adam Perry.

Parkway Area: MD Horng Tern; Vice MD Walter Langan; WD Adrianna Flynn; Vice WD Deborah Hawthorne; YMD Tetsushi Ogata; YWD Jessica Yamamoto.

Capital Region: MD Ken Hodge; Vice MD Jason Feinman; WD Karen Howe; Vice WD Tina Smith, Jennifer Bryant and Angela Baden; YMD Damien Bryant; YWD Ayanna Wilson.

Central Area: MD Jimmi Lyons; Vice MD Derek Matthews, Michael Aken; WD Sallie Lucas; Vice WD Maia Carroll, Rosie Gordon; YMD Kamal Cooper; YWD Marsha Lucas.

Southern Maryland Area: MD Mac Ewell; WD Jennifer Bryant; Vice WD Sarah Fultz.

Montgomery East Area: MD Peter Howe; WD Sandy Stokes; Vice WD Abbe Schlebecker, Nobue Feinman; YWD Shariffa Johnson.

Washington DC Region: MD Mark Blockus; Vice MD Mike Gauer, Yuki Iizuka; WD Tia Waller-Pryde; Vice WD Hisako Yoshino, Rita Kelly, Ann Marchant; YMD Brian Mochizuki; Vice YMD Sharif Fennel; YWD Alison Howe; Vice YWD Tomoko Wada.

Montgomery West Area: MD Blake Lange; Member Care Fred Grimmnitz; WD Ann Marchant; Vice WD Rumiko Lindenmeyer, Valerie Leet; Member Care Teruko Hicks; YMD Takaaki Masaki; Vice YMD Thai Leong Yap; YWD Kimberly Cappelli.

Rock Creek Area: MD Hiro Yoshino; WD Paula Cassell; Vice WD Liz Gruisin-Howe, Dora Blacknall, June Redmond; YMD Eric Zuehlke; YWD Hideko Rainey.

Washington DC Area: MD Troy Roots; Member Care Alwin Harding; WD Nancy McPhail; Vice WD Pat Henry; YWD Siobhan Bolan; Vice YWD Ashley Dawley.

Potomac Area: MD Richmond Kelly; Vice MD Mike Culrtis; Member Care Bill Davis; WD Rhonda Stewart; Vice WD Cynthia Carter; Member Care Shizu Curtis; YMD Kevin Glenn; YWD Dimple Kapoor; Vice WD Monica Ohtsuka.

Maryland Region: MD Clint Tearnan; WD Mary Amos; Vice WD Karyn Harvey, Machiko De Torres; Member Care Hisako Brown; YMD Daniel Kunimoto; YWD Lillian Lopez.

Baltimore Area: MD Guang Wong; Vice MD John Godby, Jeff Surber; WD Linda Young; Vice WD Cathy Maglaris, Brenda Fowler, Injoo Chung; YMD Alvin Huang; YWD Valerie Huang; Vice YWD Arunima Chatterjee.

Patuxent Valley Area: MD Toshi Kunimoto; WD Amy Morgante; Vice WD Alfreda Staton, Jeannie Myrick, Susan Daly, Beverly Butler; YMD Eric Kunimoto; Vice YMD Patrick Konfrst; YWD Amanda Gardner.

Chesapeake Area: MD Ralph Matthews; Vice MD Rob Hendry; WD Paula Hendry; Vice WD Doris Roberts, Ann Childs; YMD Alan Watson; YWD Hyun Jung Jun-Konfrst.

Shijo Kingo - Trusted Disciple

2009-02-27T22:15:00.001-05:00

The study material for March is the gosho "The Strategy of the Lotus Sutra".

Shijo Kingo was the recipient of this gosho. Shijo lived in Kamakura with his wife and two daughters. As a samurai well versed in medicine and martial arts he was in the service of the Ema family. Lord Ema was a follower of Ryokan, a priest of the True Word Precepts school who bitterly opposed Nichiren Daishonin. Shijo urged Ema to take faith in the Lotus Sutra resulting in a loss of favor with Ema to the point that Ema threatened to confiscate Shijo's fief. Later, Ema grew ill and Shijo was able to nurse him back to health thus restoring Ema's trust. Shijo was granted a fief three times larger than the original one. Even so, out of jealousy and resentment, Shijo's enemies (fellow samurai) attacked him. Shijo escaped unharmed. This letter is a reply to Shijo's report of the attack.

Shijo, recipient of 29 of Nichiren's writings, was a most trusted disciple. He accompanied Nichiren to Tatsunokuchi where Nichiren was to be beheaded. He also visited Nichiren during his exile to Sado. When Nichiren was on his deathbed, Shijo attended him and he participated in his funeral.

District Study

2008-12-31T19:30:00.000-05:00

The current SGI-USA study program includes a district study meeting during the fourth week of each month. Lectures, based on SGI President Ikeda's lecture series published in Living Buddhism, are presented by chapter leaders and above. Lecturers are prepped at monthly meetings which provide lecture points and material. Also prep lectures are available on the internet at the SGI-USA web site.

The web lectures had previously been presented at sgimedia.net and were password protected. But recently these lectures have been made available on the SGI-USA website as announced in the 28 Nov World Tribune. The announcement also included the password required for access to the lecture series. In effect, these videos are available to everyone. The January lecture includes presentations by SGI-USA Men's Leader Tariq Hassan, SGI-USA Young Women's Leader Vinessa Shaw and SGI-USA Young Men's Leader Nathan Gauer.

The prep lectures at the DC Culture Center are restricted to chapter leaders and above. During a period of lax enforcement earlier in '08, I was able to attend several of these prep lectures. I found them to be quite enjoyable and valuable, especially when Bill Aiken was the presenter. But recently the series has been been lecturejacked by senior leaders. The rationale given for this is that the prep lectures are meant for the lecturers who will lecture at the district meetings - it's training for the chapter leaders.

We are welcome to hear the words of Hassan, Shaw and Gauer, but not those of more local senior leaders.

The DC Culture Center presentations seem to align closely with the Living Buddhism lecture series. But at the district level this is generally not the case. Maybe this training is not so effective. Also, a training program invariably includes some method for results evaluation. In this case there is no visible evaluation method except, perhaps, in the attendance at the district meetings.

Here are some other possible reasons for the restriction of the DC Culture Center presentations to chapter leaders and above:

1. They need to save seats for late arriving chapter leaders. I arrived on time or early to the events that I was able to attend. The room was nearly empty at the 7pm starting time and still sparsely filled at the beginning of gongyo. It would finally become nearly full by the end of gongyo. Thus there will always be good seating available.

2. They want to protect the chapter leaders from embarrassment due to some of the less that well thought out questions/comments they put forward.

3. They don't want the district leaders/members to compare the culture center presentations with the district lectures. Such a comparison might result in further embarrassment of the chapter leaders and lead to standing room only at the culture center with diminished participation in the district meetings.

It seems to me that the DC Culture Center presentations should be open to all. It's the members who advance kosen-rufu; the members should be encouraged to attend.

Who's Your Mentor?

2008-12-29T21:50:00.002-05:00

Nichiren Buddhism as practiced by SGI can be said to be a Buddhism of mentor and disciple. SGI President Ikeda has said that the mentor does not choose his disciples, rather, a disciple chooses his or her mentor. But Nichiren said that if you choose the wrong person to follow, you'll end up in the world of hell.

Bernie Madoff has bilked his investors out of 50 billion dollars. His investors believed in him and trusted him with huge amounts of money. Some of these investors gave him their life savings. Most of Bernie's clients were contacted in social settings. Bernie's investment strategy was actually a huge Ponzi scheme. Early investors may have made profits, late investors lost everything. They followed the wrong guy. They're living in a financial hell.

Remember the Jonestown Massacre? In 1978, 918 members of a religious cult lead by Jim Jones commintted mass suicide in Gayana. More on that here. Clearly the cult members had chosen the wrong leader.

SGI members revere SGI President Daisaku Ikeda as their mentor in faith. Why? Because President Ikeda has accomplished world wide propagation of Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism. He has carried out the wishes of his mentor, Josei Toda. Josei Toda had been a disciple of Tsunesaburo Makiguchi. who found Nichiren Shoshu late in life and rescued the sect from obscurity. President Ikeda has been leading the way for over 50 years and has shown actual proof. Nichiren had said that absolute happines is quaranteed to those who correctly practice the teachings of the Lotus Sutra. Practioners gain tangible results through the three practices of faith, practice and study. Surely enlightenment awaits those who persevere.

Pay for Play

2008-12-20T10:00:00.001-05:00

The recent presidential election campaign received huge support. Tens of thousands of citizens and a large number of corporations contributed millions of dollars. An untold number of people throughout the country gave their time and energy to campaign activities. What was their motivation? Some did for the excitement of the proceedings, others did it simply because they thought it was the right thing to do, still others hoped for some tangible reward, such as, a nifty staff job, getting the ear of the winner. Corporations, in particular, expected to recieve special treatment from the winner in the form of favors and lawmaking.

The political turmoil that surrounded Illinois governor Rod Blagojavich caused a journalistic blizzard in the news. This pay for play scandal revealed high level corruption. This is not really new. Senators and Representatives have been identified with various scandalous activities. Meanwhile, the nations economy is in recession, the automakers are pleading for a government bailout, unemployment is at an all time high.

So what's going on. Are all these shenanigans hiding something even more reprehensive? Some say that the Pearl Harbor bombing that ushured the US into WWII should have been prevented. Intelligence about the Iraq weapons proved to be wrong (or wrongly interpreted). There were signs of illicit activity leading up to 9/11. How did these things get by us? Who was minding the store? We'll never know. But we should learn from our mistakes.

Does SGI-USA fit into this scheme? We hear a lot of positive things. We'll get benefits; we'll achieve absolute happiness; we'll achieve world peace. So, members work for hoped for benefits. It's a practice of faith. They work for nothing. Many tire of negative results and give it up. SGI touts member care - the job of encouaging the members to continue their practice. If they don't recieve benefit, they say, it's the fault of the individual, not the practice. The incessant badgering often results in a member leaving the practice all together.

Is there pay for play here. Absolutely, yes, there is! Members pay with their time and effort to play the game. Those who don't 'pay' don't receive the much touted member care. Members get promoted when they consistently pay with their time and work, regardless of the result achieved. Then, when they are appointed to a leadership position, they are hung out to dry - sink or swim. Support from above is almost non-existent, from below - nothin'.

This runs counter to President Ikeda's admonition to seek out and raise capable leaders. Instead of seeking members who exhibit capability, they wait for volunteers. The volunteers then run wild, parroting President Ikeda, without a care for the members' situation.

Planning Ahead

2008-12-06T21:30:00.000-05:00

President Ikeda, in his speech at the 23rd HQ Leaders Meeting held in Tokyo on Oct 28th:

"When one speaks to a diverse group, it is important to have interesting subjects to talk about that fit the audience and situation, to use humor to break the ice and help listeners relax and to occassionally introduce something that impresses them and makes them think. Leaders of our organization have a duty to pay attention to such matters and find ways to speak to people that really hit home and capture their hearts and minds."

Terrific guidance for all of us who speak at SGI-USA discussion meetings. Leaders need to reach out and touch people. This is a very difficult thing to do and requires intense forthought and preparation. Many times this doesn't happen. Leaders often lack preparation for discussion meetings and frequently fail to listen closely to what members say and end up giving a figurative shoulder shrug and a hearty 'oh well' to member comments.

On the other side of the coin, members sometimes are reluctant to 'give the floor' to leaders present at meetings. Good communication is a two-way street. Good planning is a must.

SOKA Justice

2008-12-04T13:00:00.000-05:00

The 21 November World Tribune 'Seize the Day' pullout includes an article by Young Men's Leader Nathan Gauer entitled 'A Revolutionary of Hope' under the banner Soka Justice.

He referenced Nichiren Shoshu Monthly, a magazine published by Nichiren Shoshu Temple. An article that denigrates SGI President Ikeda, claiming that he has deceived the Soka Gakkai members by encouraging them to make causes that are counter to True Buddhism. The 'bad causes' are apparently not specified by the NST article. They say that [President] Ikeda is the guru of a heretical organization. Such egregious charges are indicative of a go-for-broke opposition to a lay organization that has grown to millions of members in countries worldwide under the leadership of President Ikeda.

For over ten years SGI has been battling this third powerful enemy. Nevertheless, the temple is thriving. We have lots of Soka Spirit tosos that are well publicized but not much other observable action. Although the result appears limited, it is probably wise to recall that an avowed opponent of Nichiren, Ryokan, high priest of the Nembutsu sect, remained powerful, even though Nichiren repeatedly demonstrated that he was wrong. It might be that NST will be with us for an indefinite period of time, but Nichiren advised that the three powerful enemies would emerge. It remains for SGI members to fight this enemy in any way possible.

We need a high level action plan and frequent communication of actions and results - not low key but the the world to see!

Study? What study?

2008-12-02T13:27:00.000-05:00

The 2008 SGI-USA study initiative is nearing its end with one more month to go. For my district the turnout for the monthly lectures has been abysmal. Why is that? We have cited the member's busy lives, conflicting life schedules, work requirements, etc. But could it be that the lectures are not interesting? I have found most of the lectures to lack content, are poorly prepared, and are little more than a reiteration of what President Ikeda's fine lectures already say. And most of us can read!

The monthly 'prep' lectures at the DC Culture Center have been much better. But attendance is restricted to chapter chiefs and above. Even so, I attended a few of them and found them to be quite good, especially when Bill Aiken is giving the presentation. The content of these presentaions, though, doesn't make it to the district level. At the district level, much of the presentation contains the presenter's, sometimes mistaken, personal views.

The lecturers at the monthly district study meetings must be chapter leaders or above. As if they are capable of doing the presentation simply because of their elevated status. Yeah, right. It's training for them, I've been told. But merely talking for 30 minutes or so does not constitute training.

The study program must be made interesting enough so that the members will make the effort to attend!

Independence Day

2008-11-28T12:00:00.001-05:00

Nov 28, 1991. On this day the Nichiren Shoshu priesthood excommunicated all the more than 10 million members of SGI. The priesthood expected SGI members to leave SGI and join the temple but, with this act, the members were released from the chains by which the devious priesthood sought to control the Daishonin's followers. With this new spiritual independence, the SGI expanded from 128 to 194 countries and territories under the leadership of SGI President Daisaku Ikeda.

While the priesthood maintains that obedience to the priest is essential for believers' enlightment, the SGI continues to refute the erroneous teachings of the Nichiren Shoshu priesthood that seek to subjugate the members to their will. Nichiren Daishonin said that Buddhahood is open to all. The gohonzon is not outside yourself but exists within your own body. Chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo is the direct path to enlightment.

Let us never forget.

2008 Schedule for Kofu Gongyo at DCCC

2008-01-31T13:44:00.000-05:00

February 2nd (Sat) 7pm PG Area
February 3rd (Sun) 10am Wash Area
February 1oth (Sun) 10am Mont East Area

March 1st (Sat) 7pm Wash Area
March 2nd (Sun) 10am PG Area
March 9th (Sun) 10am Mont East Area

April 5th (Sat) 7pm PG Area
April 6th (Sun) 10am Wash Area
April 13th (Sun) 10am Mont East Area

May 3rd (Sat) 7pm Wash Area
May 4th (Sun) 10am PG Area
May 11th (Sun) 10am Mont East Area

June May31st (Sat) 7pm PG Area
June 1st (Sun) 10am Wash Area
June 8th (Sun) 10am Mont East Area

The schedule may be changed from May due to opening of the new Culture Center

Mont West Area has kofu the first Sunday of every menth at King Farm Community Room in Rockville (the place may change to the new activity center).

2008 New Member Meetings for PG Area

2007-12-22T21:48:00.000-05:00

A New Member Meeting will be held on the first Sunday of every month at 11:30 at the DCCC. The New Members Meetings will include a short presentation, a question and answer session, and discussion. The emphasis will be on practical application of Buddhist principals, developing a strong practice and achieving personal Human Revolution.
January -1. Ten States of Life
February - 2. Cause and Effect
March - 3. Transforming Suffering and Illusion
April - 4. The Oneness of Body and Mind
May - 5. The Oneness of Self and Environment
June - 6. The Middle Way
July - 7. The True Aspect of All Phenomena (The Ten Factors)
August - 8. The Eternity of Life
September - 9. Nam My oho Renge Kyo
October -10. The Practice of Nichiren Buddhism
November -11. The Gohonzon
December - 12. The Life of Nichiren Daishonin

East Territory 2008 Study Program Proposal

2007-12-15T13:06:00.000-05:00

East Territory 2008 Study Program Proposal

From the foreword to SGl President Ikeda's Lecture Series: "The Opening of the Eyes"—A Call to Open Our Eyes to Nichiren, to Open Our Eyes to the People (Living Buddhism, November 2004, page 24)

Religion is the pillar of humanity. Philosophy is the backbone of life.

Toward realising a century of life and a century of humanity. 1 would like to discuss the essence of Nichiren Buddhism and the steadfast commitment of the SGl. an organization that has inherited the true spirit of the Daishonin. I would also like to leave behind a solid spiritual foundation for the SGl of the future.

Philosophy is what empowers our struggle to be victorious in life. All of you who are earnestly studying and internalizing Nichiren Buddhism—an extremely lofty and profound practical philosophy—are certain to become eternal "doctors of philosophy. " I begin this series of lectures with the ardent prayer that each of you will illuminate the deepening darkness of modern society with the brilliant light of the Daishonin's writings —the "sutra of hope, " the "eternal jeweled scripture " and develop into courageous people of philosophy who will build a century of humanity.

Study Program Goals

• To communicate and instill the joy of Buddhist,study.
• To engrave Nichiren Daishonin's spirit in the life of each member.
• To learn the mentor/disciple spiritof the Three Presidents of the Soka Gakkai based on the
principles of Buddhism.
• To ensure high-quality study presentations with the emphasis on "fighting" study.

Material

The material for the monthly study meetings will follow the National 2008 Study Program, focusing on President [keda's lectures in Living Buddhism. (See National Study Program guidelines.)

Lecturers Group -Qualifications (or other name - Monthly Study Leaders, Study Presentation Leaders. Study Presenters)

• Chapter- or area-up- line leader (depending on the location) from any of the 4 ivisions.
• Active participant on the front lines of the organization.
• Willing to make a one-year commitment., to attend a monthly preparation meeting and to
lead at least one to two study meetings per month.
• Lecturers: Regions/Zones, please report confirmed lecturers' names to the Territory by
December IOth.2007.
• Kick-Off/Commitinent meeting: Please hold a kick-off for the 2008 study program by mid-
December. 2007.

Lecturer Preparation Meetings

• Preparation meetings will be conducted by Zone. A prep team made up of Territory leaders), few representatives of the Zone Team, Zone Study Rep. and the members of the Territory Study team can be responsible for preparing the material for the monrnly lecturers meetings. Each zone may create more than one team.
• Prep meetings should be held combination of in-person meeting and telephone/video presentation.
• Based on the delivery schedule of Living Buddhism, we suggest holding preparation meetings during the first week.

Prep lecture and lecturers are responsible for:

• Giving instruction on how to plan and give an inspiring presentation at the Monthly Study Meeting.
• Deliver preparation meetings through Power Point presentation on the key points, video/phone conferences and/or in-person lectures.
• Make the monthly prep presentation available on a Territory Web Page.
• Establish a coaching program to team up new lecturers widj more experienced ones.
• Territory Study team wi II provide key study points and power point presentation.

Monthly Study Meetings

• Conducted on the district or chapter level, depending on the needs of the location.
• Smaller meetings produce better attendance, allow for individual participation, and provide more opportunities to develop and train leaders.
• To allow lecturers ample time for preparation, hold study meetings in the fourth week of the month. (Please see the Territory annual schedule.)

Administration

• Each organization may wish to formi committee to organize the assignment of lecturers to study meetings,
• To ensure the participation and development of line leaders, we do not recommend forming study committees separate from the line leadership.

Learning Reviews and Study Exam

There will be a Buddhist Learning Review, similar to those held in 2006 and 2007, geared more toward newer members to create a foundation for study.

Advance Study

Discussion of an additional, more challenging and rigorous exam or review for those holding higher leadership positions is underway. However, this will not lake place until 2009. (This may possibly be an extension of the leadership development seminar program and exam.)

Writings for Discussion Meetings

The Writings for Discussion Meetings series will continue to appear each month in the World Tribune. (Please seethe National Study Program guidelines.)

Other Issues for Discussion

• The relationship between the Study Program and Leadership Seminars or Leadership development.
• Study Representatives: Territory, Zone, Region (or more)
• Current study movement during non-gosho study movement.

2008 Study Program

2007-12-11T13:16:00.000-05:00

2008 STUDY PROGRAM

Sensei begins installment #9 of his lecture series on "The Heritage of the Ultimate Law of Life" as follows: "Buddhism is a teaching conveyed through the mentor-disciple relationship. The oneness, or shared commitment, of mentor and disciple forms the essence of Buddhist practice. If we forget the lentor-disciple relationship, we cannot attain Buddhahood."

Trough these series, Sensei is now conveying to us the understanding necessary to solidify the foundation of global kosen-rufu in each member's life, and to set a dynamic and steady pace for our growth into the new era. Through discussions with our national leaders, we have determined that we must not miss the opportunity for every member to thoroughly absorb the understanding and spirit sensci is now sharing through his monthly published lecture series.

To support this focus, Sensei's lecture series on Nichiren Daishonin's writings will be the core material for SGI-USA's Buddhist learning efforts in 2008. To this end, Living Buddhism will discontinue its regular bi-monthly commentary on selected writings of Nichiren Daishonin.

Find below the monthly schedule for 2008 based on the installments of Sensei's lecture series that will appear in Living Buddhism Magazine:
• Jan-Feb Living Buddhism: January: Installment #9 of "Lectures on The Heritage of the Ultimate Law of Lift February: "Heritage" #10
• March-April LB: March: "Heritage" #11 April: "Heritage" #12
• May-June LB: May: "Heritage" #13 (End of Series) June: A "recap" feature summarizing key points and concepts from Sensei's entire lecture series on "Heritage of the Ultimate Law of Life."
• Julv-Aug LB July: First installment of the series "Scripture of Hope": Learning from the Gosho (Tentative translation of title). This installment is Sensei's lecture on the concluding portion of the Gosho "The Drum at the Gate of Thunder" (Jp: Sennichi-ama gozen gohenji) written to the lay nun Sennichi. (WND-1. page 949. from the line "Those who make offerings to the Lotus Sutra .. source: September 07 Daibyakurenge)
August: "Scripture of Hope" #2: "On Prolonging One's Life Span" (Kaen jogo sho) Concluding portion (WND-1, page 955, from "When I prayed for my mother..."/ source October 07 Daibyakurenge)
• Sept-Oct LB: September: Scripture of Hope #3 (Content not yet known) October: No installment for this month: to allow members to focus on the review Buddhist Learning Review.
• Nov-Dec LB November: Scripture of Hope #4 December: Scripture of Hope #5

The lecture installments in Living Buddhism will each be supplemented by an enhanced study points section at the end of each article, and with sidebar articles on some key terms and concepts mentioned in that installment.

"Writings for Discussion Meetings"
The Writings for Discussion Meetings series will still be published each month in the World Tribune. The passage covered will relate in some way to the Lecture Series installment for that month, but may not be from the specific writing that installment covers. Instead, for the sake of variety, in this series we will include articles on passages from other writings quoted in that month's lecture series installment. We hope that this series will continue to be used to bring study to the district, the front line of our movement.

The Buddhist Learning Review will again be held in October 2008 and will include material selected from the first 3 issues of living Buddhism for the year, as well as some basic study terms that will appear in the World Tribune.

Discussion of an additional more challenging exam or review for those holding higher leadership positions is underway. However, this will not be implemented until 2009, and will possibly be an extension of the leadership development seminar program and exam.

Council and 23rd Central Executive Conference

2007-11-13T14:57:00.000-05:00

At the conference held 18-21 October, SGI-USA General Director Danny Nagashima was approved for a third three year term. The Council also approved the current Board of Directors to a new three year term. The SGI-USA Council voted to create a 14-18 member Executive Council to serve as SGI-USA's highest decision making body. Women's Leader Matilda Buck was named chairperson. The Executice Council is now responsible for SGI-USA's rules, affirming it's yearly activity goals and approving Council members. It also approves national division leaders. None of the Executive Council members may simultaneously serve on the CEC or Council. The General Director is a non-voting member. The body must convene at least three-fourths of its members and at least one SGI represebtative to hold a meeting. SGI appointed two representatives, SGI General Director Yoshitaka Oba and Soka Gakkai Vice President Yoshiki Tanigawa. In addition, Study Department Leader Jeff Kriger announced that President Ikeda's 'Lectures on the Heritage of the Ultimate Law' series now appearing in Living Buddhism would be the 2008 study material. When this series completes in June, focus wiull shift to President Ikeda's new series, 'Scripture of Hope: Learning from the Writings of Nichiren Daishonin'. The first installment will be on the concluding portion of 'The Drum at the Gate of Thunder'.

What Happened to Our Study Department?

2007-11-09T17:00:00.000-05:00

Check this out! Study department exams in Brazil, Venezuela, Thailand and Nepal. What's up with SGI-USA's study department. All we do is reviews which are not even up to the entrance level.

Study Department Exams in Other Countries

World Peace Prayer

2007-11-04T13:33:00.000-05:00

Saturday 3 Nov 07 7pm. PG Area held its not atypical Kosenrufu Gongyo. Sparsely attended, lacking any hint of passion, showing a distinct lack of preparation, presenters read from Living Buddhism and World Tribune. Prepared experiences, which mostly chronicled a series of personal misfortunes, only obliquely referenced the benefits of Buddhist practice.

This is, perhaps, a too cynical view of things. But consider the sparse attendance. Conversely, Christian mega-churches are springing up all over the country. People are streaming into these churches by the tens of thousands week after week. They seem to relish the message of the charismatic preachers and the high tech presentation. The services seem to be well planned and carried off without a hitch. There's an additional advantage in the service schedule - it's the same time every week.

SGI-USA hasn't had any charisma since George Williams stepped down as general director. And it's definitely low-tech. It's held monthly rather than weekly, and the time alternates between Saturday evening and Sunday morning, sometimes combined with another area. Planning, which at one time done in concert with area leaders, has been passed down to he chapters. Much of it seems to be an aferthought, perhaps not early enough to allow for proper preparation.

There are two ways of looking at what some might call extremely boring and irrelevant area meetings. One is that some members fully appreciate the tone and content. These are the people who return each month and enjoy the proceedings. The other side of the coin is the cynic's view elucidated in the first paragraph. The 70 or so attendees represent perhaps hundreds of PG Area members. And where is everyone? Why don't they attend?

The one bright spot was Bill Aiken's discussion of how to present experiences at district meetings. He basically said that a good experience should praise the Gohonzon. This, in turn, would expand the good fortune of the experience giver and could potentially affect a chain of hearers in a positive way. An experience that does not praise the Gohonzon has no beneficial effect. This would seem to invalidate the experiences given at Kosenrufu Gongyo on November 3rd.

October Study Review

2007-09-30T15:04:00.000-04:00

October has become SGI-USA's traditional month for study review. The purpose of this activity is to encourage the study of Nichiren Daishonin's Buddhism. This is certainly a laudable effort since study is one of the three practices of this Buddhism. The review appears to be aimed almost entirely at new members who have little knowledge of Buddhist philosophy. This is good because it challenges newbies to learn and it challenges leaders to help them understand.

But what about the members who have been practicing for some time and can easily pass the review with little or no study. What happened to the four level Study Department of years past? A thorough knowledge of Nichiren's teachings requires a more than a yearly easily passed review. Previous study department exams had levels of complexity that presented challenges to the most learned of practitioners. And Study Department position provided some degree of fulfillment.

Members interested in more in depth study are left to their own devices. This is likely to result in misunderstandings of what the teachings teach. The '2nd Act' headed up by Greg Martin. Nothing has been heard since - how long does it take to initialize?

SGI-USA should put more effort into this important issue.

Soka Spirit ?

2007-06-14T09:05:00.000-04:00

On June 12th the bi-monthly Southeast Zone Soka Spirit teleconference was held as set forth in the 'Soka Spirit Direction for 2007'. The agenda included a presentation by North America Study Department Leader Jeff Kriger about the importance of practicing Buddhism with the same intent as Nichiren, words by SGI-USA Young Men's Soka Spirit Leader Raymond Chen, and temple information updates by Loren Jacobs. Impressive lineup, not so impressive result.

Everyone was late, appeared to be unprepared, speaking pretty much off the cuff.

After a while, Loren Jacobs led off with the temple report. In the face of declining tozan participants, the temple has decreased the 'offering'. A meeting at Hoshoji temple earlier this month was attended by 205 people. "Temple Care" meetings to analyze the status of temple members are being encouraged. As part of the temple campaign there will be a reformed priest visit in early August.

Raymond Chen, saying that he had to leave soon for some important event or other, droned on for several minutes about not much of anything.

Jeff Kriger went on about the great vow, downgrading the vow to a wish for kosenrufu.

In final words, Jean Rosenberg's talk, seemingly unrelated to Soka Spirit, went way over my head.

One might expect some degree of enhusiasm in all this. But NO! Washington DC's NBC4 Bob Ryan waxes enthusiastic about the weather, of all things. Compared to him, these Soka Spirit leaders could be reading from a telephone book. Soka Spirit indeed.

Julie Still, President of Living Buddhism club at Virginia Tech

2007-04-18T21:05:00.000-04:00

I am with the Buddhist community. In the aftermath of the terrible events yesterday, I extend my deepest condolences to all those families who have lost their loved ones. From the bottom of my heart, I pray for the victims, and I pray that all of us, especially their families, find inner strength, understanding, and compassion leading to healing.

It is impossible not to be outraged at the senseless loss of so many lives. The number of total deaths is utterly horrific; every person lost was irreplaceable and immensely precious --- a much-loved sister, father, son, mother, teacher and friend. The message of all religious teachings is the sacredness and preciousness of life. In the most terrible manner imaginable, we have been reminded of the immense value of human life.

Like you, I have been receiving and sending numerous e-mails and phone calls connecting with friends and family. The emotional stress we all under is overwhelming. However, the Dalai Lama has said, "It is under the greatest adversity that there exists the greatest potential for doing good."

Now is our opportunity as a community to unite. We must connect with each other just as we are reconnecting with family and friends.

In the words of poet, Jennifer Edwards:
The beauty of life is, while we cannot undo what is done,
we can see it, understand it, learn from it and change.
So that every new moment is spent not in regret, guilt, fear or anger,
but in wisdom, understanding and love.

Each action we take can embrace or alienate. In the words of Daisaku Ikeda, a well-known Buddhist leader,

"When great evil occurs, great good follows. But great good does not come about on its own. Courage is always required to accomplish great good. Now is the time for us to demonstrate the courage of nonviolence, the courage to engage in dialogue, the courage to listen to what we don't want to hear, the courage to control our desire for revenge and follow reason."

I am convinced that we were born into this world with an inherent good nature and together, we must restore our faith in humanity. I believe that from this tragedy, this courage is the greatest and most enduring way to honor the memory of our loved ones.

Let's take a moment to reflect.
(ten second pause)
Thank you.

Chinese Prime Minister Meets with SGI President

2007-04-18T20:30:00.000-04:00

Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao met with SGI President Daisaku Ikeda at the New Otani Hotel for 30 minutes in the afternoon of April 12, 2007. Mr. Wen was accompanied by a party of eleven including Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing and Chinese Ambassador to Japan Wang Yi. Soka Gakkai President Minoru Harada and General Director Masaaki Masaki were also present. Mr. Ikeda met with the Chinese Prime Minister in his capacity as honorary president of Soka Gakkai. Mr. Wen first met Mr. Ikeda in 1992 when he accompanied then President Jiang Zemin on a visit to Japan. During this most recent meeting he commented that he has read two of Mr. Ikeda's published dialogues. The Chinese prime minister paid tribute to Mr. Ikeda's efforts to promote friendship between the two countries and presented him a calligraphy in his own hand reading: "Creating a new path to the future through compassion, binding a good relationship through harmony." Mr. Wen commented that his visit to Japan on this occasion had been the most difficult and most vital of all his overseas visits in recent years. He was heartened to feel the Japanese people's genuine wish for improved relations.

Mr. Ikeda praised Mr. Wen's "outstanding" speech at the Diet earlier in the day, describing it as a great and heartfelt declaration for peace and friendship between the two countries. He commented that he was reminded of Zhou Enlai--observing the same love for humanity, deep insight into history and clear vision. He congratulated Mr. Wen on the great success of his "ice thawing" visit.

As the meeting ended, Mr. Wen expressed his wish for a longer discussion at the next opportunity.

For nearly four decades, Mr. Ikeda has consistently promoted friendly relations between Japan and China. He has visited China on ten occasions and on his second visit, in December 1974, he met with Zhou Enlai, shortly before the Chinese premier's death.

Mr. Ikeda was an early proponent of normalization of diplomatic relations between China and Japan, starting with a proposal made in 1968. Over the years, he has initiated numerous cultural and educational exchanges as bridges of peace between the two countries. In 1975, Soka University, founded by Mr. Ikeda, welcomed the first Chinese exchange students to study in Japan after the normalization of Sino-Japanese relations. He has been awarded over 70 honorary doctorates and professorships from universities and academies in China in recognition of his contributions to Sino-Japanese exchange and friendship. Mr. Ikeda was president of Soka Gakkai in Japan from 1960 to 1979. He is now honorary president of the Japanese organization and has also served as president of the Soka Gakkai International since 1975.

[Adapted from an SGI press release dated April 13, 2007.]

Washington Post Discovers SGI

2007-02-24T12:00:00.000-05:00

The 24 Feb Washijgton Post published an article about SGI in the Religion Section.
Click here to read the article.

DC Region General Meeting

2007-02-08T17:37:00.000-05:00

DC Region General Meeting

A Washington DC Region General Meeting was held on February 3rd at the U of M Shady Grove campus with National leaders, including General Director Danny Nagashima, in attendance. This meeting was called with little fanfare or advance notice. It’s as if the upper echelon wanted to keep their movement secret from (who?). They come in the dark of night and leave as surreptitiously.

Judging by the response at the next day’s kofu gongyo, the meeting was a huge success. Members there, who had also attended the general meeting, seemed enthusiastic. A half-dozen or so women who witnessed seemed genuinely enthused, the few men who spoke, less so (I had the impression that the men were just looking for some mike time).

Many were inspired. I was not.

At the general meeting the men were in one meeting place, women in another (maybe for seating capacity or maybe to give the leaders more time to talk).

On the men’s side the meeting started off with a Ray Charles impersonator (for real? Yep, and it was LOUD!).

Four national leaders addressed the crowd. The first, who has been chanting for about two years, he said, was the best of the four. He gave an experience that included a rather lengthy history of life’s ups and downs, abuse as a child, fits of despair, near suicide. Finally he began to chant and his life turned around. And he made peace with his abusive father.

YMD Leader Danny Hall spoke dispassionately, and at length, about his interpretation of the master-disciple principle.

The third speaker (Steve Mortan?) provided another experience. The guy did a shakubuku which, to hear him tell it, saved the other’s life. He also spoke of abuse as a child.

Why is it that many of today’s members are victims of child abuse? Why do they have to publicize it? One-upmanship? I suspect that most of the people of my generation would qualify, under today’s standards, as child abuse victims. Get over it already. Experiences ought to be more about what the person accomplished rather than about the bad things he/she grew up with.

Danny Nagashima was the final speaker. He talked about the February Women Division General Meeting. He proclaimed himself an honorary WD member for the month. He encouraged men to attend the meeting, but we must to bring a guest. He also mentioned the DC Culture Center which is under construction. Danny talked at length about President Ikeda’s Seven Bells Hinitiative.

I would like to know more about the Seven Bells thing but could find nothing in print.

I read an article in the Washington Post recently about GodMen, a Christian movement that denigrates the traditional Christian church’s emasculation of men. “Thank you, Lord, for our testosterone”, says evangelist Brad Stine. Hold hands with strangers? Sing love songs to Jesus? No wonder pews across America hold far more women than men, says Stine.

I don’t necessarily endorse GodMen, but I think some of this ‘emasculation’ is evident in SGI-USA. Look around – women far outnumber men at most local meetings. Honorary WD indeed! Let’s let men be men – whatever that means.

Discussion Meetings at Center

2007-01-18T20:39:00.000-05:00

Discussion Meetings at Center

There has been much talk lately that the district/group discussion meeting will, once again, be the center of activities for kosenrufu. That's the way it was in those heady days of yesteryear The district reined supreme. We had kotekitai, brass band, jr pioneers. Then something happened. The emphasis on youth gave us an independently functioning YMD and YWD. Previous youth activities faltered (kotekitai, etc.). They said goodbye to the districts. The culture department became another entity. Then the elementary school division, SOAR, DOVES, Student Division, etc.

Now it has been announced by the zone leaders that the district meeting will again become the center. But the only concession thus far has been the encouragement to schedule discussion meetings in the third week of the month so that the senior leaders could keep their schedule open for that week and attend the discussion meetings. This is reminisent of the previous, not particularly effective, effort to have a senior leader 'adopt' a district. Everything else remains the same. That leaves the district chief responsible for interfacing with leaders of a host of special groups. Instead of leading his/her district, the district chief is coordinating activities for others. Is this the way to go?

It is not! The district leaders need more visibility. This can come in the form of public recognition during kofu gongyo, chapter study meetings and other higher level assemblies. Special interest groups should remember the district chiefs who work so hard to support their activities.

But wait! Have the district leaders voluntarily abandoned their responsibility? District chiefs must stand up for their members. This is undoubtably true in some districts but the evidence is slight.

SGI-USA Roundup of Goals for 2007

2007-01-14T17:15:00.000-05:00

Here is a summary of goals presented by the various levels of the SGI-USA organization for 2007.

SGI-USA Theme for 2007; World Tribune 10 Nov 2006
The Year of Advancement and Victory
This theme has four main points of focus:
Steadily expanding our circle of friendship
Striving to advance our discussion meetings
Fostering the youth – treasures of the SGI – and new members
Improving and making full use of our publications , the driving force for kosenrufu.

Southeast Zone
Year of Youth and Dynamic Growth
Five keys
Prayer
Study
Caring for others
Unity
Mentor and Disciplle

Southeast Zone Soka Spirit
Prayer
Soka Welcome Network
Study
Youth involvememnt
Conferences/meetings

Washington DC Region Soka Spirit
25 disassociations
Close Myosenji temple
Increase the Soka Spirit toso sponsors to 100

PG Area
Mentor and disciple
100 youth receive Gohonzon
Four divisional teams in every district
WD study leader in every district
FNCC
280 WT & LB

Prince George's Area Goals for 2007

2007-01-13T21:01:00.000-05:00

These goals were put forth by area leaders at the 12 January 2007 area planning meeting:

1. Accomplish and bring to life President Ikeda's goals and guidance in the spirit of the oneness of mentor and disciple.

2. 100 youthful Boddhisattvas appear in PG Area to receive their Gohonzon.

3. Every district to have a four divisional team: MD, WD, YMD, YWD.

4. Every district to have a WD study leader for gosho prep.

5. One member from every district ti attend FNCC this year.

6. Achieve the total of 280 World Tribune and Living Buddhism read and subscribed to.

Soka Spirit Direction for 2007

2006-12-23T15:37:00.000-05:00

Soka Spirit Direction for 2007

The Southeast Zone Soka Spirit Committee has established activity forecasts and goals to promote Soka Spirit during 2007. They are intended as guidelines for addressing local activities and depend upon line leadership for .implementation. This might or might not be a good thing. Merely announcing a plan of action does not ensure success. Someone must take an active part in promoting and leading the activities.

Prayer

All members should experience the joy of chanting daimoku to 1) Create an atmosphere that will attract temple members and friends 2) Uproot the negative influence of the Nikken sect in our local communities 3) Encourage participation in one-hour daimoku sessions to pray a tangible Soka Spirit victory.

Soka Welcome Network

1) Continue Soka Spirit and line leader support for Courageous Hearts persons in their outreach to temple friends.
2) Continue semi-annual meetings by region and/or area to review temple member outreach.
3) Each area and region set clear goals for disassociation and consistently track progress throughout the year. Disassociations – 2007 SE Zone Goal: 50
4) Each district should strive to bring back at least one former member to the SGI family. “Returning Friends” - 2007 SE Zone goal: 500

Study

1) Include more experiences from Courageous Heart and disassociated temple members in SGI-USA publications.
2) Conduct joyful Buddhist Learning Review meetings and encourage members to participate to understand correct Buddhist practice.
3) Provide orientation on Soka Spirit essentials for new members.
4) The Zone Soka Spirit Conference will be held in three locations (Caribbean, North & South Florida – April 28,29; Carolinas, Virginia & DC – March 24,25; South Central and Southeastern – April 21,22) to be attended by chapter thru zone line, Soka Spirit and Study Committee members, Courageous Hearts contact people.

Youth Involvement

Study the history and significance of the Soka Spirit movement starting with small groups to discuss and deepen understanding. Area leaders can bring Soka Spirit into the mainstream of SGI local activities and they can share their understanding of Soka Spirit.

A resource list is being developed.

Each sets its own schedule and rhythm. It’s recommended that MD/WD be consulted for guidance on implaaamentation.

Scheduling

Zone teleconferences will be held bi-monthly beginning in February (except April when the focus will be on Zone Soka Spirit Conferences).

Region and zone Soka Spirit leaders teleconferences will be held in March and November.

Kick-off meetings will be held in January.

Washington DC Culture Center Groundbreacking

2006-12-03T14:12:00.000-05:00

December 3, 2006. At long last the DC Culture Center is about to become a reality. Situated at 34th and Massachusetts Ave., this Castle of Kosenrufu should be complete in about one year. The ceremony was attended by local SGI-USA dignitaries, officials of the firm, Helmuth Obata & Kassabaum, SGI-USA pioneers and other members.

World Tribune Soars

2006-11-30T15:50:00.000-05:00

World Tribune Soars

General Director Danny Nagashima, as part of his report on the progress of the SGI-USA at the 21st CEC and Council meeting on Oct 26, 2006, announced that World Tribune subscriptions reached 40,453 in July. Living Buddhism increased to 23,318.
These don’t seem like particularly impressive numbers. If I recall correctly, WT was at about 35,000 several years ago. LB hasn’t really increased a lot either and represents a small percentage of the membership.
Since there was no announcement of the increase in membership, one can only assume that it wasn’t great. For an organization that prides itself in the struggle for world peace through the propagation of Buddhism, this might be something of an embarrassment.
Mr. Nagashima is the second in a line of SGI-USA caretakers since George Williams stepped down in the early 90’s. The first was Fred Zaitsu who pledged 1 million ‘Friends of the SGI’ before the end of his term.
Under Mr Williams’ leadership the then NSA made great strides. George Williams’ list of accomplishments is amazing. During his tenure the claimed membership was in the half million range (this in the 70’s). He started the World Tribune in 1964; hosted President Ikeda on, I think, 2 occasions. He contributed three temples, organized national conventions and innumerable parades and other community events. What happened to George? Where did he go?

SGI-USA Theme for 2007

2006-11-30T13:36:00.000-05:00

SGI-USA Theme for 2007

Soka Gakkai President Einosuke Akiya announced the theme for 2007 at the 64th Headquarters Leaders Meeting on Oct. 12. The SGI-USA CEC and Council agreed to adopt the following SGI theme for 2007:

The Year of Advancement and Victory

This theme has four main points of focus:

Steadily expanding our circle of friendship.

Striving to enhance our discussion meetings.

Fostering the youth – the treasures of the SGI – and new members.

Improving and making full use of our publications, the driving force for kosenrufu.

World Tribune 10 Nov 2006

Southeast Zone Plan for 2007

2006-11-12T17:37:00.000-05:00

At the November PG Area Planning Meeting we learned about what's up for next year in the Southeast zone. The zone plan will, of course, trickle down to the area, chapter, etc. One pronouncement of the area leaders was that the district discussion meeting will definitely be the center of activities (sound familiar?). A new angle will be the scheduling of the district discussion meeting during the third week of each month. That way, other activities will not be scheduled during that week and senior leaders can keep that week free to attend district meetings. There should be district tosos in support of the district meeting (what happens to Soka Spirit tosos?). Each month has a theme, i.e, January is Kick Off 2007 month. More to follow. We'll see how it goes.

Southeast Zone Plan for 2007

Theme: Year of Youth and Dynamic Growth
5 Keys for 2007: Prayer, Study, Caring for Others, Unity, Mentor and Disciple Relationship

Prayer
How can we ensure that our organization for kosenrufu continues to grow? First we should pray for the growth and good health of our fellow members. (President Ikeda WT 3/5/04)
“When all members pray to the Gohonzon with one mind, they will naturally find a way opening before them – a way to make the impossible possible.” (Human Revolution Vol 10)

Study
“Buddhist study provides us with a great philosophy that serves a a compass to traverse the stormy and perilous seas of life. The more solid our foundation in Buddhist study, the stronger our faith will grow. If, on the other hand, we lack a strong backbone of Buddhist study, we will be weak in a time of crisis.” – President Ikeda (WT 12/9/05 and 2006 Buddhist Learning Review Study Guide)
Study Materials for 2007:
President Ikeda’s February 13, 2004, speech “The World Awaits the SGI-USA” (WT, 3/5/04)
The Heritage of the Ultimate Law of Life (Living Buddhism Jan-Feb 2006)
Human Revolution Vol 10.

Caring for Others
Sharing Buddhism
Action Plan
Hold consistent introductory Buddhist meetings at a local level.
Encourage each member to invite one person to their monthly district meetings.
Encourage each member to participate in the one hour daily United Prayer.

How can we ensure that our organization for kosenrufu continues to grow?
Treasure our fellow members to the utmost.
It is vital that we sincerely respect each person’s individuality, personality and mission.
(President Ikeda’s Feb 13, 2004, speech – WT 3/5/04)
Districts should gather for statistics meetings every two months.
“Your efforts, unknown to others, will no doubt become your limitless good fortune, wisdom and glory, adorning your lives and your precious families lifetime after lifetime” (President Ikeda Dec 24, 2002 – Seikyo Shimbun)

Unity
“If the spirit of many in body but one in mind prevails among the people, they will achicve all their goals” (WND p618)

“Many in body” acknowledges that people have different appearances, dispositions, abilities and tastes.
“One in mind” means that people share the purpose, values, hopes or wishes.
By sharing the same great vow of the Buddha, we create the spirit of “one in mind.”
“The ‘great vow’ refers to the propagation of the Lotus Sutra” (Record of the Orally Transmitted Teachings p82; Jan-Feb 2006 Living Buddhism pp54,55)

Mentor and Disciple Relationship

Only through each disciple connecting directly to the mentor can the unity of “many in body, one in mind” be created. (Jan-Feb 2006 Living Buddhism p55)

Another October Review

2006-11-08T23:26:00.000-05:00

The last weekend in October saw the second SGI-USA Buddhist Learning Review. The basic idea is to get members to do a little studying to bolster their faith (and be more prepared to deal with the temple issue). And it works for that. But it’s kind of sophomoric. It takes hardly any effort. The ‘learning’ has little depth. It’s more like a new member indoctrination.
Study is important, of course. But a study program needs some goals and some management. Out of the hundreds of gosho, which are the most important? Who is the interpretation authority?
Hopefully, the CEC gods of Mt. Olympus will do something more than just repeating what we have already done.

What SGI Is Up To

2006-11-08T22:24:00.000-05:00

I'll use this blog to post opinions and observations about the goings on in SGI-USA. Some posts might not be very complimentary. I am a member of SGI-USA and support its goals ans aspirations in general but I might take issue with some specific SGI-USA pronouncements.