Well, Quite simply I?m a better parent because I?m a much happier person than I was before I started to practice and have a much healthier outlook on life.
Parents and children are very valued within the framework and values of the SGI. Children are seen as the future, they have a right to happiness and a right to be respected ? the children raise us every bit as much as we raise them! As mirrors of adult society it is our responsibility to ensure that we provide conditions for them to grow as confident and capable individuals. One thing that attracted me is that the organisation is very much steered by younger members.
There?s a huge amount of theory if that?s what you?re into, but I don?t think that?s helpful when you?re just considering your options. In a nutshell - Nichiren Buddhism is based on the teachings of 12thC Japanese Buddhist scholar Nichiren Daishonin, who distilled the teachings of the historical Buddha, Shakyamuni or Siddartha, down to one essential teaching, The Lotus Sutra. This he further distilled down to the phrase nam-myoho-renge kyo, which we chant as a means to tapping in to the life force of the universe and our own inherent ?Buddhahood?, which is life at it?s most creative. This sounds very cosmic but is actually highly rational and intensely practical as it?s a practice based on action, responsibility and value creation in our own lives rather than introverted meditation. The law of life, or the universe is based on cause and effect, and the fact that all life naturally strives to reach its full potential. We try to undertake a process called human revolution, transforming negative tendencies and circumstances into positive benefit and value, which in turn will lead to a change in wider society. (Like Gandhi, ?be the change you want to see?)
Really that?s all I want to say because it?s a philosophy based on life to life connections and it?s people?s experiences of the practice that are really important. I?ve met so many inspiring people from all over the world. I suggest watching the video or if you want to find out where your local group is there?s a UK centre which will put you in touch with someone in your area. There are small discussion meetings each month where you can go and ask questions.
It?s not an ?organised religion? as such. We are a lay society so the organisation is run by the members in each country with the worldwide headquarters in Japan. You can have as much or as little to do with the organisation as you choose, because it basically exists only to support the individual. Some people drop in about once a year, others take part in everything ? it really is a personal choice. I personally like the activities and there are dedicated groups and activities for the children at different ages.
Fatfrog, I?m from Northern Ireland. I hope you feel I?ve reflected the practice ok. Feel free to add any thoughts.