MESSAGE
FNCC Educators Division Conference

July 20, 2000
Daisaku Ikeda

My sincerest congratulations on the holding of your SGI-USA Culture Department Educators Division conference --a gathering of valiant champions of humanistic education. I deeply respect the efforts you have been making day in and day out. If President Makiguchi and President Toda could witness your conference this weekend, I am sure they would be extremely pleased.
What is the fundamental purpose of education? President Makiguchi, the father of Soka Education, proclaimed that it lies in the happiness of students. When students sense their teacher's earnest wish for their happiness, they naturally come to trust that teacher and open up their hearts. In this sense, a teacher is the most important component of a student's educational environment. I earnestly hope that each of you, through your tenacious daily efforts based on faith, will show courageous, loving and passionate care for your precious students.
Buddhism explains that boundless meanings derive from a single Law. As educators who practice the Mystic Law in today's chaotic world, you possess an enormous mission. I ask that you please advance boldly and courageously with pride and awareness of your mission as educators of unprecedented importance who put the great teachings of Buddhism into action. At the same time, please do not forget your role as educators who live among ordinary people and strive to help them overcome their suffering.
I, too, am resolved to dedicate my life to education, for education is what determines our future; it is the very foundation upon which to build peace and create value.
I am sincerely sending daimoku to each and every one of you, my dear friends, praying for your glory and cussess in your endeavors. Please convey my sincerest regards to those who could not be here today.