Studying the World’s Wonders

　　　　It is reported that recently there has been an increase in the number of middle-aged and older people who are enrolling to study at universities and graduate schools. The number of such students is growing year by year, evidence that more and more people are interested in lifelong learning. Some Rissho Kosei-kai members are among those studying at a university after they retire and then applying the knowledge they gain in their volunteer activities or in their hobbies. When I learn of such developments, I realize that we are not limited to being students only during our schooldays, but that as human beings we can continue to be students throughout our lives.
　　　　The Japanese word gakusei, meaning student, can be read in two ways. In one reading, it can be understood to mean “to study is to live,” and in the other, to mean “to study how to live.”
　　　　Gaku in gakushu (learning, study) means learning from one’s predecessors, while shu means not only understanding something mentally, but also achieving physical mastery of it, as when a fledgling ready to leave the nest practices flapping its wings in imitation of its parents.
　　　　Well, then, what and how should we study? By studying the wonders of the world we can be awakened to our true selves, independent and free of attachments.
　　　　There are limitless wonders among the things of the world that we often take for granted. For example, although we take it for granted that the flower we know as a rose blooms on a rose bush, in fact, it is one of the wonders of nature that it does. It is not only roses, but all living things that are wondrous existences, irreplaceable lives that come into beings through the working of causes and conditions that are beyond the range of our own knowledge to comprehend.
　　　　Instead of simply taking things for granted, when we recognize and experience the wonder of them, we will realize the importance of studying them and find joy in it.

Learning Humbly

　　　　In the writings of Zen master Dogen, he uses the phrase, “not always.” It means that nothing can always be said to be so because things change from moment to moment, and therefore it is impossible to definitely say that something is absolutely so.
　　　　We are caused to live in the midst of infinite changes and connections, and with our limited knowledge as human beings we cannot accurately know or grasp anything in its entirety.
　　　　If we can realize this, then conceited behavior, such as selfishly asserting judgments, will end. Then we will become aware of the wonder of things that we have taken for granted and become able to humbly learn from everything.
　　　　This year we mark the centennial of Founder Niwano’s birth and the ceremony making the completion of the renovation of the Great Sacred Hall at Tokyo headquarters, so our religious practice can take place in a fresh environment. Let us take this opportunity to once again think deeply about the founder’s wish and joyfully continue our spiritual advances.