Marching Forward Beyond Every Limitation

Finding My Mission Beyond My Limitations

I lost my eyesight when I was very young. Although several surgeries were attempted, none could restore my vision. Growing up without sight was emotionally difficult. I often felt angry, isolated, and reluctant to interact with others. While I performed well academically and was blessed with wonderful friends, I constantly wondered how I could contribute meaningfully to society.

Everything began to change when I encountered Nichiren Buddhism. Reading Nichiren Daishonin's writings and Ikeda Sensei's encouragement awakened a completely new perspective within me. Instead of seeing my blindness as the defining feature of my life, I began to see it as part of my mission to encourage others.

Transforming My Inner World

I made faith the foundation of every day. Some days I chanted only a few minutes, while on others I challenged myself to chant for several hours. I studied the Gosho and The New Human Revolution daily and constantly sought opportunities to encourage fellow members through home visits and heartfelt dialogues.

Gradually I realized that my biggest battle was never against blindness. It was against fear, self-pity, anger, insecurity, and the tendency to underestimate myself. Every effort to support another person became an opportunity to transform my own life.

Preparing for the Civil Services Examination while pursuing higher studies demanded tremendous discipline. There were countless academic deadlines and many practical challenges that accompanied visual impairment. Yet every obstacle strengthened my determination to fight for kosen-rufu.

Turning Setbacks Into Strength

Years of sincere efforts in faith began reflecting across every area of my life. I became more confident, developed deeper appreciation for my family and friends, completed my higher studies, and built a happy married life rooted in shared values.

Eventually I cleared the Civil Services Examination. However, my joy was short-lived when I was denied appointment because of my blindness. The disappointment was overwhelming, and I questioned my future.

At that time, I repeatedly encouraged myself with Sensei's guidance:

"We live in uncertain times. No one knows what the future will bring, and anxiety prevails. But through chanting wholeheartedly, we can change poison into medicine, no matter what happens."

— "Banner of the Law," The New Human Revolution, vol. 26, p. 140

Instead of giving in to despair, I deepened my faith even further. I intensified my daimoku, continued encouraging members, strengthened my study, and refused to allow disappointment to define my life.

Actual Proof Through Human Revolution

The following year I appeared for the examination again. This time I secured a higher rank and fulfilled my dream of joining the Indian Administrative Service.

As my responsibilities increased, I resolved that my profession would become an expression of my Buddhist practice. Whether serving communities during natural disasters, supporting marginalized citizens, or listening sincerely to people seeking help, I tried to place the dignity of every human being at the center of every decision.

Nichiren Daishonin writes:

"Live so that all the people of Kamakura will say in your praise that Nakatsukasa Saburo Saemon-no-jo is diligent in the service of his lord, in the service of Buddhism, and in his concern for other people."

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

These words continue to guide me every day.

My Determination

I have realized that our greatest limitations can become our greatest mission when illuminated by the Mystic Law. I am determined to continue growing as a compassionate administrator, encourage countless people to believe in their own limitless potential, foster capable successors, and dedicate my life to advancing kosen-rufu through my work and my actions.