In Nichiren Buddhism, our practice begins with our own finite efforts and aspirations. These seemingly limited qualities are actually expressions of the Eternal Shakyamuni Buddha’s real presence within our lives, and thus can effect our transformation into a more awakened state. Due to this transformation, our practice naturally becomes beneficial to all sentient beings. Odaimoku is the practice that carries us through these stages and is itself the manifestation of these stages. Namu Myoho Renge Kyo is the aspiration for awakening, the awakening itself, and the sharing of that awakening.