On May 10, 2020, SGM held an online broadcast study session which was viewed by some 11,000 viewers.
SGM General Director Koh Sia Feai started off with a study themed “Eliminating Disaster and Misery from the Earth through the Philosophy of ‘Establishing the Correct Teaching for the Peace of the Land’” where he pointed out that when we feel unsure or in doubt, especially during this COVID-19 pandemic, “we should not be led by our fickle and easily-swayed minds, but master our own minds instead.” He asked the viewers to overcome their weakness through studying the Gosho and President Ikeda’s guidance.
He then encouraged the viewers to overcome their challenges with the same spirit and faith as Nichiren Daishonin and the three founding presidents of the Soka Gakkai when they were facing adversities.
Mr Koh spoke further on the Gosho “On Establishing the Correct Teaching for the Peace of the Land” and the purpose of Nichiren Buddhism. He said that Nichiren Daishonin had concluded that in order to prevent the spread of diseases and calamities in the world, one should “establish the correct teaching,” that is to establish a way of living based on compassion. Only then, will the land experience peace, bringing harmony to society and country.
Mr Koh concluded that “the realisation of ‘establishing the correct teaching for the peace of the land’ is to cultivate humanistic philosophy in the lives of the people.” He encouraged the members to take up the lofty mission of “establishing the correct teaching” and build a strong network of global citizens.
Later, SGM youth division leader Andrew Looi talked on “Be[ing] a Hope-filled Youth in Battling the COVID-19 Pandemic”, highlighting the importance of staying hopeful and how youth could spread hope in their daily lives.
Andrew mentioned that as a student, the most important task is to finish their homework and read more widely. Meanwhile, working youth should stand firm and complete whatever goals they have set. Lastly, he encouraged youth to take initiative in calling their families and friends, help to do chores at home, build happy and harmonious families, and expand the solidarity of hope.
