The following is from the April 2026 issue of the Daibyakurenge, the Soka Gakkai’s monthly study journal.
Enticed by the sun’s gentle warmth, cherry blossoms burst into bloom, adorning themselves with the joy of spring. In their graceful dance, Ikeda Sensei beheld the cherished smile of his mentor, second Soka Gakkai President Josei Toda. This was never mere sentimentality. Rather, April 2—the memorial of his mentor’s passing—was a date he treasured as a day imbued with the vow of mentor and disciple, using this occasion to reflect upon and deepen his gratitude to his mentor.
The opening of Soka University, the shared dream of the three founding Soka Gakkai presidents, was likewise held on April 2. Sensei stated with deep sincerity, “The decision to open Soka University on this day—entrusted to me by my mentor—arose entirely from a spirit of gratitude and the wish to repay that profound debt.” The university marks its 55th anniversary this year, while Sapporo Soka Kindergarten also celebrates its 50th anniversary this month. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all who have dedicated their efforts to these endeavors.
In 1964, on the day before the sixth anniversary of President Toda’s death, Sensei declared his resolve to begin writing the novel The Human Revolution.[1] Born of a solemn determination, he vowed to transmit his mentor’s life and work to future generations and affirm his standing as a great world leader. I was nearly moved to tears by the depth of his commitment. I had just started working at the Seikyo Shimbun the month before, and I still vividly recall how determined I was to fulfill the challenges confronting me.
On April 1, 1974 [which was April 2 in Japan due to the time difference], Sensei delivered a lecture at the renowned University of California, Los Angeles, his first at an overseas academic institution. On this occasion, with a deep sense of representing his mentor, he shared insights into the philosophy of life he had studied under the personal tutelage of President Toda—what he often referred to as “Toda University.” The profound wisdom of his call that the 21st century must become the century of life echoed powerfully in the hearts of his listeners.
In an essay reflecting on April 2, Sensei described President Toda:
My mentor gave unstintingly of himself.
He selflessly propagated the Mystic Law.
He strove bravely and vigorously.
He charged forward intrepidly.
He persevered through hardships to spread the correct teaching.
He refuted the erroneous and revealed the true.[2]
These words embody his own way of life as a faithful disciple of President Toda, united with him in spirit. Whenever I read this essay, I am deeply moved and inspired to renew my vow—our vow—to emulate Sensei, just as he did his mentor.
The Seikyo Shimbun, which celebrates its 75th anniversary on April 20, preserves a complete record of Sensei’s teachings. The Buddhas and heavenly deities are surely full of praise for the noble efforts of all those engaged in the newspaper’s publication and distribution.
April is the start of a new fiscal and academic year in Japan. Many are setting forth on a new stage in their lives—attending new schools or embarking on their careers. Let us always remember Nichiren Daishonin’s encouragement to wear a smile whatever challenges we may face (see Gosho zenshu, new ed., p. 1952), and herald a spring of hope with radiant spirits and the same joy as the cherry blossoms embody!
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