Daisaku Ikeda

Life throws a lot at you. . . . Your grades aren't the best, your friend just turned her back on you, your parents are always on your case, your teachers don't understand what you're going through, the world is falling apart, and you don't know what to do about it. Whatever is freaking you out, you have what it takes to handle it. Not only handle it but thrive because of it, becoming stronger than ever. For decades, SGI President Ikeda has dedicated his life to young people, showing millions how Buddhist wisdom can help them through their struggles. His belief in your intelligence, talent, and passion is boundless, as he knows you hold the keys to humanity's future. The Victorious Teen pulls together hundreds of gems of wisdom that will move you, inspire you, and challenge you. This one-of-a-kind survival guide will provide the tools for you to begin building the life you want. When you're ready to take control of your life, find new ways to face your problems, and emerge victorious, this book is for you.

World Tribune Press’ new title Stand Up for Hope and Respect! is a collection of brief comments by SGI President Ikeda from his series “Humanistic Teachings for Victory.” Through the series, he sought to convey the Soka Gakkai spirit to youth members by touching on various aspects of faith and practice, and drawing on his own experiences in life and faith. Peace does not exist in some distant place. It begins with us. It starts with becoming friends with another person. Youth have always been the ones sacrificed in war. That’s why it’s crucial for youth to strive vigorously for peace, for you to forge a growing network of youth committed to peace. I would like you, my friends, with the power of youth, to create a society free from the brutality of war, a world where everyone can feel glad to have been born and enjoy a happy life. Peace is something that we must strive for and achieve. Kosen-rufu is nothing other than the highest expression of peace. Nichiren Daishonin writes, “All people have the Buddha nature” (“The Fourteen Slanders,” The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 1, p. 756). Everyone possesses the supremely noble life state of Buddhahood. Respecting one another is the truest way to peace. That’s why it’s so important for young people to share this great life-affirming philosophy of Nichiren Buddhism with other youth.