The four virtues are (1) filial piety toward one’s father and mother; (2) loyalty to one’s lord; (3) courtesy toward one’s friends; and (4) pity and kindness toward those less fortunate than oneself.
“The Four Virtues and the Four Debts of Gratitude,” The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 2, p. 636
After these words, Nichiren Daishonin offers his young disciple Nanjo Tokimitsu a number of concrete examples for practicing these four virtues. Their essence perhaps could be summarized today as: 1) remembering to smile at your parents; 2) gaining trust at your workplace; 3) never taking your friends for granted; and 4) being kind and considerate to the people you encounter. Nichiren Buddhism is an unsurpassed teaching for victory in life.
To all our fresh graduates who are newly joining the workforce this year,[1] forge ahead vibrantly in rhythm with the Mystic Law, shining like the morning sun. As young people of wisdom, bring a breath of fresh air to those around you with your courteous and respectful behavior. Even when your days don’t go as planned, win with the bright, invincible Soka Gakkai spirit of “Still I am not discouraged.”[2]
From the April 15, 2023, issue of the Soka Gakkai’s daily newspaper, Seikyo Shimbun. This encouragement was received before Ikeda Sensei’s passing.
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