Being reverential in our practice means that we are aware we are performing a sacred ceremony that began when the Buddha revealed the Lotus Sutra for all being in this Sahā world. We are in essence sitting with the Buddha on Mount Sacred Eagle listening to him speak as we gaze upon the Buddhas Shakyamuni and Many Treasures, Taho Tathagata. Don’t you think they deserve to be treated with the greatest respect we are able to give?

The group I first began practicing Nichiren Buddhism with taught that for our services we should be fully dressed, not in pajamas, and freshly shaved or make-up applied. I would echo that instruction today. It would be inappropriate to do your service and eat your meal or sip your beverage. This is a time to give your utmost, to be fully present.

Finally, in all of these things it is possible to be solemn and reverential and still be joyful. These attitudes do not need to be so onerous as to crowd out the joy of performing the practice. Always be mindful of how you are engaging in your practice and examine where you might be able to improve. That is Buddhism, always striving but not grasping so tightly as to choke off your joy.