I was also a member of Nichiren Shoshu/SGI back in the mid-eighties. I too disagreed with the dogmatics, triumphalism, and narrow mindedness of shakubuku as it was being taught and done at that time (I have since learned that in mainstream Buddhism shakubuku is something very different than street corner evangelizing and polemics). I left and practice with a Korean Zen school and then found my way to the West Coast and discovered the mainstream Nichiren school which the Japanese immigrants brought over in the 20th century that is called Nichiren Shu. I eventually joined them.

In the meantime Nichiren Shoshu and SGI split in 1991. I wrote the history of the split here (it is part 3 of a three part history of Soka Gakkai):

nichirenscoffeehouse.net/Ryuei...3.html

Anyway, I realized that I no longer wished to keep the Gohonzon that I had received (and the word Gohonzon is a Japanese word for any "focus of devotion" of any school of Buddhism and is only derivatively used to refer to mandalas, statues, or portraits) from SGI/Shoshu. So I had a choice, I could just throw it away (too disrespectful), turn it back to Nichiren Shoshu (but there were no nearby temples and I had no address for any), (have it ceremonially incincerated by the Nichiren Shu which would have been the accepted way of dealing with religious objects no longer in use), or turn it back over to SGI which had given it to me in the first place (on loan so they say). I finally opted for the last option as the SGI community center was near me and I felt it would be a shame to burn it (even in a respectful ceremony). So I put it in an envelope and dropped it off at the front dest. I could also have mailed it in I suppose. I was not hassled though I was asked why I was givinig it back, and I simply told the woman at the desk that I was not practicing with them anymore. But really you don't owe anyone an explanation. So my advice is to just mail it or turn it back in to either SGI or the Shoshu depending on which is easier for you.

I hope that on your own you continue to discover deeper meaning and merit to the practice of Namu Myoho Renge Kyo and the Buddha Dharma in general.

Namu Myoho Renge Kyo,
Ryuei

Hi Jenn! I'm a current member of SGI-USA. I started practicing in 1973 so I too remember the strange and beautiful times. I would like to let you know that you do have the option to keep your Gohonzon even if you are not a practicing member. However, if you would like to return it please return to your closest SGI Community Center. I'd like to say happily that the SGI has changed a lot (for the better), in becoming more tolerant of other religions, lifestyles and are becoming more connected in the community.

For a list of community centers please see the SGI-USA website:
www.sgi-usa.org
Good Luck on your new path
Diana

Hi Jenn, my name is Diana, I joined in 1973 and I still practice with the SGI. That's wonderful that you've found a spiritual path and you're continuing on your quest. Congratulations. You also have the option to keep the Gohozon, roll it up and put it in a safe place.

Take care,
Diana

a very late reply as haven't checked in here in a long long time. I agree with Diana's reply to you.Chances are you might really enjoy re connecting with SGI. The mystic seed of buddhahood is planted in your life and there is absolutely no way it/you won't bloom. The gohozon that you have was transcribed by the former high priest who had a contentious, jealous, and destructive heart, (he destroyed the sho hondo, razed hundreds of cherry trees, claims he has superior status above lay believers, blah blah blah). Now a gohonzon transcribed by Nichikan, known as the restorer of Nichiren Buddhism is available to SGI members. It's remarkably beautiful and wonderul to chant to. Wishing you happiness. -Riko

Mine was lost in a tragic accident. I would be happy to take it, as I practice now but do not have a gohonzon. I would be honored.