In "the courage to be" paul tillich (a christian philosopher and theologian) says that "joy is the emotional expression of the courageous Yes to one's own true being."
Buddhist philosopher shin yatomi expands on this in his book "buddhism in a new light", saying that this "courageous acceptance of the self also marks the beginning of the essential transformation of our lives AND the world around us." (caps are mine.)
So this is where we start to transform our world. Saying YES. To what is true. I started to learn that from progressive christian scholars, followed the "yes" through tantra (kashmiri shivaism), and now know and experience that nichiren buddhism is the practice that develops in me the ability to see what is true and to have the courage to say yes.
Sometimes I forget. Sometimes I can't find the "yes".
As I live my practice I remember - awaken - and my heart grows more compassionate and strong.
And my world (OUR world) begins to awaken from its powerful delusions and negativity too.
See what is.
Say YES with your whole self.
The future of our world is at stake.
"Today I set my heart upon enlightenment. May these blessings save all beings everywhere."
sarah
