New Perspective

New Perspective (96-98, 1491-1494)

“Toda wanted the members to acquire the spirit of the Soka Gakkai which had been inherited from its early days. This aim, he was certain, could be fulfilled by earnestly holding unit discussion meetings, no matter how small, in every nook and cranny of the organization. He wanted then to realize that the true path to human revolution and kosen-rufu lay in Buddhist practice conducted in inconspicuous places. He wanted to warn them against believing that only brilliant activities would lead to kosen-rufu. He wanted each and every one of the members to rise and further strengthen their faith. It was for these reasons that he had spoken with unusual force and passion to the leaders assembled that evening.”

The inauguration of the sixteen new chapters was held on August 26 at the International Stadium in Ryogoko, Tokyo. A number of headquarters staff appointments were made as well. Leaders throughout the country realized that a new era had arrived.
At the inauguration ceremony, President Toda spoke about the vicious slander that was being heaped upon the Soka Gakkai after the recent election cast it into national prominence. He went on to say, “Scientists as well as statesmen are racking their brains as to how to bring peace to the world. However, neither politics nor science alone can bring about true happiness. They must both be based on the true religion which squarely tackles and solves the fundamental question of birth, old age, sickness and death – sufferings which no human can avoid. A great power wells forth from within our life – this can only be obtained through faith in the teaching of Nichiren Shoshu.”
The monthly leaders meeting was held on August 31st. The number of households converted was only slightly higher than the previous month. The shock and exhaustion of the election campaign apparently still lingered in the members hearts.
The meeting began with General Director Konishi speaking about donations for the construction of a Grand Lecture Hall at the Head Temple – one of the three principle goals for 1956.
Josei Toda elaborated on the spirit of the decision to promote unit discussion meetings as the main force for kosen-rufu. After the meeting, he was content that he had completed all the necessary preparations. He had confronted a weakening of the Soka Gakkai spirit. He had prevented a buildup of the bureaucracy that would push the organization into mere formality. He would persist in this challenge.