Finding My Mentor, Finding My True Self

When My Biggest Failure Became My Greatest Turning Point

I always dreamed of building a career in the entertainment industry. Coming from a small town with no connections, I knew the journey would be difficult, but I believed that passion and hard work would eventually open the right doors.

Although I had encountered Nichiren Buddhism more than once, I never stayed with the practice. I chanted briefly on two different occasions but stopped because I lacked understanding. My wife, however, never gave up on me. She continued praying that one day I would discover my mission and connect deeply with my mentor.

For years, I worked tirelessly to establish myself as a filmmaker. I trained, studied, and accepted every opportunity to improve my skills. Eventually, I completed a filmmaking course with distinction and believed success was finally within reach.

Then came the biggest setback of my life.

Facing Complete Defeat

A close associate and I began producing our first feature film with borrowed money. I poured my heart into the project, convinced that it would launch my career. Although many appreciated the finished film, no one agreed to distribute it.

When repayment became due, I suddenly found myself carrying the entire financial burden alone. Overwhelmed by debt and disappointment, I returned home feeling completely defeated. I questioned every decision I had made and wondered if my dream had ended before it had truly begun.

One day I asked my wife what I should do.

Her answer was simple.

"Just chant."

I was frustrated by what sounded like an overly simple solution. Yet, with nothing left to lose, I began chanting sincerely every day, often for several hours.

Meeting My Mentor Through His Writings

As I continued chanting, small opportunities slowly began appearing. But the greatest turning point came unexpectedly when I picked up The Way of Youth .

Every page felt like a personal conversation. Three guidance points especially transformed my life:

"Never begrudge your life."

"Become indispensable at your workplace."

"Have genuine gratitude for your boss."

Reading these words forced me to confront my own attitude. I realized I had been working hard, yet inwardly I carried arrogance, complaint, and entitlement. I expected recognition before creating genuine value.

That day, I understood that my greatest obstacle was not my circumstances—it was my own mindset.

I also realized, with absolute conviction, that Ikeda Sensei would be my mentor for life.

Building My Life on Faith, Practice, and Study

From that moment onward, I embraced all three pillars of Buddhist practice—faith, practice, and study. I began participating wholeheartedly in discussion meetings, sharing study, encouraging members, and seeking answers in Sensei's guidance whenever difficulties arose.

Although my external circumstances did not change overnight, something far more important changed within me. I became optimistic, energetic, and grateful. Every obstacle became an opportunity for my human revolution.

The Power of Compassionate Dialogue

Not long afterward, I had the opportunity to present one of my film ideas to a highly respected producer. Instead of entering the meeting desperately seeking work, I remembered my mentor's spirit of dialogue.

We spoke not only about filmmaking but also about life and Buddhism. That sincere human connection became the foundation for a professional relationship that completely changed my career.

Over the following years, I fulfilled dreams I once believed impossible. I directed multiple films, produced successful projects, and gradually repaid every debt—including the entire amount owed to my family.

Yet I realized that these external achievements were not my greatest victory.

The Greatest Treasure

The most meaningful transformation was learning to treat every individual with respect, gratitude, and compassion. Professional success became simply another opportunity to encourage others and create value.

Nichiren Daishonin writes:

"The heart of the Buddha's lifetime of teachings is the Lotus Sutra, and the heart of the practice of the Lotus Sutra is found in the 'Never Disparaging' chapter. What does Bodhisattva Never Disparaging's profound respect for people signify? The purpose of the appearance in this world of Shakyamuni Buddha, the lord of teachings, lies in his behavior as a human being."

— "The Three Kinds of Treasure," WND-1, 851–852

These words continue to guide every interaction in my personal and professional life.

My Determination

I am determined to continue polishing my life through faith, practice, and study, strengthen countless people through compassionate dialogue, create work that contributes positively to society, and embody my mentor's spirit in everything I do. My greatest success will always be becoming a person whom others can trust, respect, and draw hope from.