As we begin to wander into the Lotus Sutra, I think the most important thing is to understand those things that in this moment enhance your practice, encourage you, and deepen your relationship with the Lotus Sutra. In all things I believe that joy should be at the root. While the Lotus Sutra may at times seem perplexing or impossible to understand I do think that joy is possible to establish. Having joy well up from within your life and manifest in actuality is very important. When you have joy then you will have greater praise, which leads to further joy. The message of joy and gratitude are as much at the heart of the Lotus Sutra, as is any complex doctrinal message.