It is much more valuable to look for the strength in others. You can gain nothing by criticizing their imperfections.
Daisaku IkedaRead
If everything is smooth sailing right from the beginning, we cannot become people of substance and character. By surmounting paining setbacks and obstacles, we can create a brilliant history of triumph that will shine forever. That is what makes life so exciting and enjoyable. In any field of endeavour, those who overcome hardships and grow as human beings are advancing towards success and victory in life.
Interpretation
Overcoming challenges builds character and leads to success.
This quote emphasizes the importance of facing difficulties and setbacks in life. It suggests that true substance and character are developed through the experience of overcoming obstacles, which ultimately leads to personal growth and lasting success. The struggles we encounter make our achievements more meaningful and our lives more exciting.
In practice
During a graduation speech to inspire students facing challenges in their careers.
It is much more valuable to look for the strength in others. You can gain nothing by criticizing their imperfections.
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.
Ability is important in our quest for success, but dependability is critical.
Starting and growing a business is as much about the innovation, drive and determination of the people who do it as it is about the product they sell.
We can argue about major championships and whether Tiger will ever surpass Jack's 18 majors, but what can't be argued is this: Tiger Woods is the most dominant, most skilled player we've ever seen.
When you make a lot of money, it just means you made a lot of money. It doesn't make you a better person.
If you were born poor, it's not your fault. But if you die poor it is.
Victory is much more meaningful when it comes not just from one person, but from the joint achievements of many.
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