First of all, please allow me to write to all of you to express my profound sorrow at the horrific terrorist incidents which we have all witnessed on the eastern seaboard of the United States. I am in profound shock and remain deeply sorrowed at the immense loss of life in New York, Pennslyvannia and Washington D.C. Furthermore, many people on the planes were from California and other states, as well as other nations across the globe. The people who were martyred during this evil act of terrorism, were victims who came from a vast array of nations and faiths... and, all our fellow brothers and sisters - all the beloved children of the Lord Buddha.

Throughout these days, we have seen on television, people from all over theo wrold coming together to pray.  Christians, Moslems, Jews, Hindus, and Buddhists, etc.. all over the world have met to pray for the people who lost their lives and to also pray for peace and understanding. In the case of my own school of Buddhism, the Nichiren Shu believers throughout Asia, North America, as well as Europe have been praying on a daily basis since the news of this terrible incident.  Our believers and followers in Italy and also within the Nichiren Shu International Group here in Tokyo, met on Sunday to offer prayers not only for the deceased, but for the family and friends of the people who met with such a tragic and sudden demise. We also used this occasion to pray as Buddhists, for peace in the world, an end to terrorism, and for respect of life throughout every corner of the world. After our prayer service, the Tokyo believers then went and placed flowers and a memorial Toba (tablet) at the gates of the American Embassy. As we chanted the sutra in unison and prayed for the deceased and for a return to peace in our world, the many on-lookers watched us. We were not the only people to pray, many who went there kneeled down, placed flowers, wept and said silent prayers. Some had even brought bouquets of flowers with personal letters in sealed envelopes attached to the flowers. Most probably, these people lost someone in this horrific tragedy. There were long lines of people wishing to pay their respects and offer condolence.

The spirit and very heart of our Buddhist religion and philosophy is equality for all humanity, peace and tranquility, wisdom and insight, profound respect and love for all beings, understanding, forgiveness in times of conflict and tragedy, accord amongst all the peoples of the world, the liberation from all the world's suffering with happiness and prosperity for all.  This is not only our prayer, but it is also our hope and aspiration for the world.

As we have seen that a few individuals can disturb and terrify not only one nation, but an entire planet. I cannot help but feel that if each and every one of us will stand up, each in our own way, to foster support for the people of America and the world, to be a positive influence and give hope and joy to all of those around us, whether it be in teaching the Dharma, simply listening with an open and kind heart, praying together, helping someone across the street, assisting someone with a heavy load, or just offering some kinds words or a smile, etc...
that each and every single one of us can truly make adifference.  As Buddhists, I feel that we should be that difference, to bring calmness, peace and sense back into our world. Let's all work together to heal our
world.

Our hearts, our prayers, our tears and our aspirations to end this madness and create a truly peaceful world are with you all.

Namu Myoho Renge Kyo, Namu Myoho Renge Kyo, Namu Myoho Renge Kyo.

With great affection,

Gassho,
Rev. Shoryo Tarabini
Nichiren Shu Rissho Kessha, Tokyo
Nichiren Buddhist International Study Group, Tokyo
Nichiren Shu Italia

              Listen to the Buddha's heart, heal the world
                          Namu Myoho Renge Kyo
           Senta bene il cuore del Buddha, guarisca il mondo
 

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