The 30th SGI-UK Scotland General Meeting

On Sunday 14th October, people gathered from all across Scotland, and as far as Italy and Czech Republic, for what was truly a General Meeting to remember. The whole day event took place in Perth Concert Hall and was attended by (the last I heard) 373 SGI members and guests, including a tremendous turn-out from out very own district.

It was a jam-packed day which will not soon disappear from the memories of those who attended, though there were a lot of memorable moments. The auditorium was positively buzzing with the vibrant energy of one of the happiest collection of people I've ever seen.

Two exhibitions were on display throughout the day - one from Seeds of Hope and another documenting the history of the kosen-rufu movement in Scotland over the past forty years. Val Steele, who coordinated the history exhibition, and Mike Trevett gave a wonderful account of the SGI in Scotland, sharing their fond memories of how the organisation has grown and flourished in our fair land.

We were then treated to an inspirational and heart-warming experience from Northern Lights' very own Anya Grycuk. More than a few tears were shed during her emotional story of building a strong relationship with her mentor.

The entertainment section saw a brilliant fusion of Scotland and Japan, with songs from the Women's/Young Women's and Men's Divisions and various other musical performances, including a song written and performed by Beinn and Rory Watson of the Young Men's Division. The display of talent was to be awed at.

Dundee & Tayside saw its membership grow by two at the Membership & Gohonzon Receiving Ceremony. What a joyous occasion to begin this tremendous new phase in their lives; I'm sure they will never regret it. A massive congratulations to all those who received on Sunday. Vice National Men's Leader, Naruo Yoshikawa spoke about the significance of the Gohonzon before handing over to our Men's and Women's Division Area Leaders, Donald Cameron and Diane Ring, for some inspiration and a look towards Scotland's bright future.

A quick lunch and we were right back to it for the second part of the day - a lecture from European Women's General Leader, Mrs Takahashi. She made the trip from Germany to speak about President Ikeda's lecture on "On The Treasure Tower" (NL8397), assisted be translator, Michiko Samuels and reader, Fiona Wood. Many were truly touched, in some way, by her lecture and the personal experience she was so kind to share with us.

Throughout the day, many children and Future Group members had been working very hard on putting together some entertainment and, at the end of Mrs Takahashi's lecture, they burst into the hall, bagpipes blaring. It was wonderful to see the light in the eyes of the young people as they showcased what they had put so much effort into sharing with us.

That was the story of the day but it all couldn't have happened without the input of so many people, especially the outstanding action team led by Niki Taylor. Come 4 o'clock, there was not an unhappy face to be found, true testament to the dedication of countless many to making this an unforgettable day.

I had a great time and I know many of you did, too. Here's to the next thirty years, and beyond!