It is much more valuable to look for the strength in others. You can gain nothing by criticizing their imperfections.
The power of growth, of improvement, the power to overcome all stagnation and break through every obstacle and transform a barren wasteland into a verdant field - that unstoppable power of hope resides right within your own heart. It wells up from the rich earth of your innermost being when you face the future without doubt or fear: "I can do more. I can grow. I can become a bigger and better human being."
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the inner strength and hope that enables personal growth and overcoming challenges.
In this quote, Daisaku Ikeda highlights the essential human capacity for growth and transformation that exists within each individual. He suggests that no matter how challenging or stagnant one's circumstances may seem, the power of hope and self-belief can ignite change and foster improvement. By confronting the future with a positive mindset and the determination to grow, individuals can reshape their lives, turning obstacles into opportunities for becoming a better version of themselves.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech aimed at encouraging students to embrace their potential.
More from Daisaku Ikeda
All quotes →There’s no need for us to be held back by the past or how things have been so far. The important thing is what seeds we are sowing now for the future.
True love should be transformative; a process that amplifies our capacity to cherish not just one person but all people. It can make us stronger, lift us higher and deepen us as individuals. Only to the extent that we polish ourselves now can we hope to develop wonderful bonds of the heart in the future.
Let us give something to each person we meet: joy, courage, hope, assurance, or philosophy, wisdom, a vision for the future. Let us always give something.
Just as a diamond can only be polished by another diamond, it is only through genuine, all-out engagement with others that people can polish their character, and help each other to reach greater heights.
Creating harmony amidst diversity is a fundamental issue of the twenty-first century. While celebrating the unique characteristics of different peoples and cultures, we have to create solidarity on the level of our common humanity, our common life. Without such solidarity, there will be no future for the human race. Diversity should not beget conflict in the world, but richness.
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A dream that you don't fight for can haunt you for the rest of your life.