hope is a decision.

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hope tree, karin zeller

 

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buddhist philosopher daisaku ikeda wrote this insightful look at the nature of happiness in his essay collection, “Hope Is a Decision.” ikeda spent 50 years writing the essays in the book. they all relate in some form to the nature of hope, and how we can take it upon ourselves to maintain it, even during tumultuous times. consider it a self-fulfilling prophecy: if you choose to be hopeful, you will be. just like if you choose to try and make others happy, it will increase your own happiness. and, as ikeda also notes in his essay, those choices will “illuminate our final years with dignity.”


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81 responses »

  1. I choose to be hopeful Beth …
    “The Swing’s Tempo”

    Life is full of challenges
    Living alone is a challenge
    Life’s challenges are there to be hurdled
    Don’t let the world bring you down

    The trees of life have many branches
    Choose your strongest branch
    Attach a lullaby swing
    And enjoy all the highs
    And flow with the lows
    Of the swing’s enchanting tempo

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  2. There is always hope. Thank God. One of my favourite quotes is, There is not enough darkness in the world to extinguish the light of a small candle.

    Wishing you, your family and friends a happy, healthy and satisfying New Year.

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  3. Daisaku Ikeda’s insights on happiness are truly profound. It’s remarkable how he intertwines the essence of hope with our individual capacity to shape our own happiness, especially amidst life’s uncertainties. His emphasis on the power of choice in fostering hope and spreading happiness resonates deeply. Thank you for sharing this enlightening perspective from “Hope Is a Decision.”

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