Shirota's Struggle

Shirota’s Struggle

‘Be the man of men of the century,
Be a virile son of the Orient,
Be a youth with a global vision,
Live your life as if it were a drama.’

     This section details the early life of Fujiya Shirota. Born in ’31 his father was a dentist. The third son of six children, his father died suddenly when he was 12. Due to finances he was unable to continue his education beyond middle school. He found employment with Goro Sagawa’s dental supply store.
     Things did not go well. Business was poor, money was tight. He joined the Sokagakkai. When in the company of youth division members, he was in high spirits, but outside of gakkai activities he was sorrowful.
     In January 1955, Yoshihiko Oya, one of Shirota’s juniors, was appointed chief of a reorganized corps. Shirota was hurt by being passed over for the appointment but managed to devote himself to gakkai activities.
     Not unaware of Shirota’s troubles, Shinichi Yamamoto was able to meet with him at the Kansai headquarters. Shirota opened up to Shinichi and told him everything that happened. Shinichi, for his part, related some of the obstacles that he had faced – many of which paralleled Shirota’s own problems.
     Finally, Shinichi encouraged Shirota to continue his efforts for kosenrufu. He pledged to do so. He fought valiantly in the campaign of April and May, which was why he now found himself in the detention house.

Points to ponder

     The importance of guidance from senior leaders.
     What is the state of ‘Soka Care’ in today’s SGI?
     Members participating in activities seem to be receptive to guidance. What about inactive members?