On this, the one year anniversary of my Mom's death, I share with you these words that have been inscribed in my heart.
This is one of the only religions that has the actual texts of the founder in written format...not someone else's interpretation of the founder's words. This quote reinforces how incredibly fortunate we are to have the Gohonzon and be able to draw the rich power of the universe from within our lives.
...from Reply to Kyo'o
This was written to Shijo Kingo's infant daughter, but meant for his parents. They had been followers for many years, and had recently been bestowed with the Gohonzon. They were one of the first families...and they had written the Daishonin to inform him that Kyo'o was very sick. This letter was his response. It was written August 15th, 1273.
Gosho Quote (This is almost the whole of this short Gosho):
Since I heard from you about Kyo'o Gozen, I have been praying to the gods of the sun and moon for her every moment of the day. Always cherish the Gohonzon which I sent you some time ago for her protection. This Gohonzon was never known, let alone inscribed by anyone in the Former or the Middle Day of the Law. The Lion, king of beasts, is said to advance three steps, then gather himself to spring, unleashing the same power whether he traps a tiny ant or attacks a fierce animal. In inscribing this Gohonzon for her protection, Nichiren is like the lion king. This is what the sutra means in "the power of an attacking lion." Believe in this mandala with all your heart. Nam Myoho Renge Kyo is like the roar of a lion, what sickness can therefore be an obstacle?
...Wherever your daughter may frolic or play, no harm will come to her, she will be free from fear like the lion king... But your faith alone will determine all these things. A sword will be useless in the hands of a coward. The mighty sword of the Lotus Sutra must be wielded by one courageous in faith. Then he will be as strong as a demon armed with an iron staff. I Nichiren, have inscribed my life in sumi, so believe in this Gohonzon with your whole heart. The Buddha's will is the Lotus Sutra, but the soul of Nichiren is none other than Nam Myoho Renge kyo. Miao-lo states in his interpretations, "The revelation of the Buddha's original enlightenment is the heart of the sutra."
Kyo'o Gozen's misfortunes will change into fortune. Muster your faith and pray to this Gohonzon. Then what is there that cannot be achieved? You should believe the Lotus Sutra when it says, "This sutra fulfills one's desires. It is the pond's cool, clear water that quenches thirst." and "They will have peace and security in this life and good circumstances in the next. When I am pardoned from exile in this province, I will hasten to Kamakura where we will meet. If one considers the power of the Lotus Sutra, he will find perpetual youth and eternal life before his eyes...."
Thank you Nichiren Daishonin!
Love to you!
Jamie
