Osaka-Sakai General Meting (pp 44-midcol1 46)
President Toda, “I believe it is up to us to realize that only those who stand up and fight to save the people can be true disciples of Nichiren Daishonin. The Daishonin established the source of kosen-rufu when he inscribed the Dai-Gohonzon for the Main High Sanctuary, and left us the task of widely propagating the true object of worship. It is now the time for us to undertake that mission – the time to accomplish the movement for kosen-rufu by all means.”
1pm, 8 April 1956. The members are in high spirits, singing one gakkai song after another. The Osaka-Sakai general meeting opens in the pelting rain. President Toda precedes the top leaders to the platform. Several speakers are scheduled to address the audience. Due to the inclement weather they have decided to shorten their speeches.
Shinichi stated that the predominant religion or philosophy of a nation forms the foundation for the happiness of the people. He wanted the audience to understand that activities for kosenrufu were completely different from elections conducted for political purposes. Briefly mentioning the history of Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism, and the Daishonin’s declaration of Nam Myoho
Renge Kyo, he encouraged the participants to devote themselves to kosenrufu.
Sakai Chapter Chief Asada expressed his determination to overcome ‘any number of storms and blizzards’.
Josei Toda took the rostrum. He declared that he wished to dispel poverty from all the members in the area. He went on to discuss the evils of false religion in light of Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism; if the people abandon these false religions and take correct faith they will become happy without fail. Without fail! He spoke of Nichiren Daishonin’s remonstration with authority. He further elaborated on his vision for kosenrufu.
Read more of President Toda’s address in Human Revolution Vol X.
Points to ponder
Read President Toda’s comments and think about his vision for kosenrufu and how to attain it. What is our role in this effort?
What is the fundamental purpose of SGI’s belief and practice?
General meetings on a large scale seem to be a thing of the past. What was the importance of activities such as the NSA conventions, regional meetings, etc.? Why are they gone?
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