Reality is harsh. It can be cruel and ugly. Yet no matter how much we grieve over our environment and circumstances nothing will change. What is important is not to be defeated, to forge ahead bravely. If we do this, a path will open before us.

— Daisaku Ikeda

Rise to the challenges that life presents you. You can't develop genuine character and ability by sidestepping adversity and struggle.

— Daisaku Ikeda

Salute to the Smiling Faces of the 21st Century.

— Daisaku Ikeda

Strength is Happiness. Strength is itself victory. In weakness and cowardice there is no happiness. When you wage a struggle, you might win, or you might lose. But regardless of the short-term outcome, the very fact of your continuing to struggle is proof of your victory as a human being.

— Daisaku Ikeda

The determination to win is the better part of winning.

— Daisaku Ikeda

The economy is after all driven by people. No matter how dire the situation may be, as long as people are firm, a turnaround, revival and progress can be possible.

— Daisaku Ikeda

The effects of human right education can be dramatic in awakening people to the value and power of their own lives, as shown in the following stories.

— Daisaku Ikeda

The heart is what is important." There is nothing more vulnerable, nothing more corruptible than the human mind; nor is there anything as powerful, steadfast and ennobling.

— Daisaku Ikeda

The institutions of human society treat us as parts of a machine. They assign us ranks and place considerable pressure upon us to fulfill defined roles. We need something to help us restore our lost and distorted humanity. Each of us has feelings that have been suppressed and have built up inside. There is a voiceless cry resting in the depths of our souls, waiting for expression. Art gives the soul's feelings voice and form.

— Daisaku Ikeda

There are no greater treasures than the highest human qualities such as compassion, courage and hope. Not even tragic accident or disaster can destroy such treasures of the heart.

— Daisaku Ikeda