Hi everyone, Cassidy here. You might be wondering why we're publishing a short episode in the middle of the week.

I'm here with a bit of news to share with you about the Buddhist philosopher, Daisaku Akeda, whose work many of our guests reference on the show.

Daisaku Akata, Buddhist philosopher and president of the Sokagakai International, or SGI, passed away from natural causes at his

residence in Shinjuku, Tokyo, on the evening of November 15th. He was 95. I'd like to share a little

bit about his life and a piece of encouragement written by him that I really love.

Ikeda was born in Tokyo on January 2nd, 1988.

He was inaugurated as third president of the Sokagakai in 1960, and for almost two decades led the lay Buddhist movement in dynamic growth that also saw important international development.

Today, Sokagakai International, or SGI, is a diverse community of millions

of people across the world who are committed to bringing about an age that respects the dignity

of life. Dysakua Keda worked tirelessly to promote peace, education, and cultural exchange around

the world.

He's had dialogues with thousands of ordinary people, as well as leading thinkers,

such as Nelson Mandela, Rosa Parks, Arnold Toynbee, and Wengari Matai.

He has also founded schools and universities in the United States and beyond. He has survived by his wife Kaneko and his

son's Hiromasa and Takehido. For millions of people around the world, Dysakoukata's encouragement

inspired them to become strong, wise, and compassionate. Since hearing the news of his passing,

I've been reflecting on all the ways his work has personally impacted my life.

And although I'm sad, I have so much appreciation for everything I've learned and will continue to learn from his life.

I'd like to leave you all with a piece of encouragement that has really touched me during this time.

In the book Stand Up for Hope and Respect, Ikeeda writes,

The Japanese word for mission means to use one's life.

For what purpose should you use your precious young lives?

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