by Azarel Ruiz
Orange, Calif.
Just over a year ago, I was living in survival mode.
Each day felt like a battle, and I often isolated myself because it seemed easier than trying to explain how I felt. At the same time, I deeply wanted to connect with others. I remember feeling like I was searching for a place where I truly belonged.
Although I first encountered Nichiren Buddhism when I was 14 through a high school friend, I didn’t begin practicing until 16 years later in August 2024. I had grown up Christian, and while I was always intrigued by Buddhist ideas, it was difficult to let go of what I had been taught my whole life. Eventually, however, I reached a point where I felt like I was constantly searching for answers but not finding them.
That’s when I decided to seriously give Buddhism a try.
The first time I attended an introductory meeting, there was a warmth and sincerity I hadn’t experienced before. I remember thinking that the people there seemed truly happy, and I wanted to understand how they had developed that kind of joy.
More than that, I realized I wanted to become someone who could make others feel welcome in that same way.
As I began chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo and attending meetings regularly, I noticed changes in my life condition. Instead of withdrawing from people, I began opening up. I also had the opportunity to join the Byakuren Group, supporting activities behind the scenes. Through this experience, I formed meaningful friendships and learned how powerful sincere dialogue can be. Little by little, I began to move beyond the isolation that had once defined my life.
Around that time, I was also searching for a new job. To prepare for interviews, I chanted every day and read Ikeda Sensei’s encouragement to strengthen my determination. Two departments at a health care organization offered me positions, and I was thrilled. But then I received a call saying there had been a mistake—the position had actually been meant for another candidate. I was devastated.
For a moment, the same feelings of doubt and discouragement returned. But through chanting and studying encouragement from Sensei, I determined not to give up. I applied again and soon received an official job offer in the women’s health department. Today, I feel grateful to support patients through both joyful and difficult moments in their lives.
This experience taught me something important: When we connect with others and care about their happiness, our own lives become stronger and more meaningful. Because Buddhism helped me overcome my tendency to isolate, I began challenging myself to share this practice with others.
Earlier this year, a women’s leader and I had gone to a coffee shop to meet a young woman who was preparing to receive the Gohonzon. After our conversation, my leader encouraged me to try sharing Buddhism.
At first, I worried about how the person might respond or whether I would say the right thing. But then I remembered how someone had once reached out to me and how that simple act of kindness had changed my life.
So I gathered my courage and approached a young man who was leaving the café. I asked if he had a moment and shared briefly about Buddhism and the idea that anyone can develop happiness and hope through chanting. To my surprise, he responded kindly and listened with interest. When the conversation ended, he thanked me for sharing.
In that moment, I felt a huge sense of relief and joy. The fear I had felt beforehand disappeared. I realized that introducing Buddhism isn’t about convincing someone—it’s about planting a seed and creating a genuine connection.
Now, as a young women’s leader in Grand Victory District, I’m determined to keep challenging myself to reach out to others—especially youth who may be struggling the way I once did. Because I know how isolating life can feel, I want to create opportunities for others to encounter a community where they feel seen, encouraged and supported.
My determination is to continue introducing this Buddhism to more young people and building friendships—one conversation at a time.
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