to overcome their difficulties, whatever they may be.
The writings of Nichiren Daishonin (1222-1282), called Gosho in Japanese, are filled with words of passion, determination and encouragement. His messagea of compassion abound in his works and letters. They demonstrate his strong will for people to overcome their difficulties, whatever they may be. He exhouts people to have courage and hope, independent of the era in which they live. SGI President Ikeda has conveyed the essence of Nichiren's words to everyone he has met with over the course of his travels in Japan and abroad, and has dedicated his life to putting Nichiren's teachings into practice through a broad-based peace movement. Half a century after initiating his oberseas activities, he has realized the westward trnsmission of Buddhism that Nivhiren profhesied in the 13th century. He writes: "The moon appears in the west1 and sheds its light eastward, but the sun rises in the east and casts its rays to the west."2 Nichiren's words are quited in Birthright of Man:Selected Texts, published in 1968 by UNESCO to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the enactment of the Universal Declaratin of Human Rights:"Even if it seems that, because I was born in the ruler's domain, I follow him in my actions, I will never follow him in my heart."3 The Ghosho has been translated in 10 languages. It is now shared by many prople around the world as guidelines for life that bring them the power and confidense that make them happier, and their communities more peacefull.1. This refers to the fact that the new moon is first seen in the west just after sunset. In the nights that follow, as the moon grows fuller, it appears to move a little farther toward the east. Because of its orbital motion, iphoto magazinet appears each day to have moved slightly backward, from west to east.2. The Writings of Nichiren Daisyonin. vol.1(Tokyo:Soka Gakkai, 1999),p.401monthly photo magazine SGI, April 2011