“But a sword, even when exposed to a great fire, withstands the heat for a while, because it has been well forged.” This quote comes from one of Nichiren Daishonin’s writings on page 839 from Hero of the World.
At my first SGI meeting a senior member in faith mentioned the concept of forging and that really resonated with me. I view the metaphor of heating and pounding out the kinks and impurities in metal to craft a desired masterpiece comparable to my need to face my challenges, flaws, and weakness and leaving behind the best authentic version of myself.
The imagery of forging aligned with my mindset of self-determination, motivation, reliance, and strength to overcome obstacles, which I believed in before I began this practice a mere two months ago. I know that it’s ultimately up to me to transform and undergo my personal human revolution, but I also know I am not alone in this endeavor.
Since my 50k Lions of Justice experience I’ve found such a positive and welcoming community of genuine and likeminded people who not only strive to achieve personal happiness, but happiness and peace for others. Through SGI I’ve met some incredible people with fascinating life experience and stories. I’ve established close connections and relationships which I look forward to developing. Since I’ve started this practice, I’ve never been happier in my whole life and this is just the beginning of my forward momentum. Sure, obstacles and challenges will fall before me, but one thing is for sure, I will forge ahead. I will not be swayed.