Compassion and Goodness: Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju

Unveiling the Radiance of the True Self

Compassion and goodness are the inherent qualities of our true self. They are the original nature that resides within every one of us. However, for a very long time, these beautiful qualities have been obscured by our own selfishness, our tendency to make discriminations, our wild delusions, and our deep-seated attachments. Because of these heavy veils, we have been unable to see the light of our own true nature.

To rediscover this original nature, we must engage in the process of purification. We need to diligently remove the various layers of pollution and mental coverings that have accumulated over countless lifetimes. Only when these obstacles are cleared away will compassion and goodness have the opportunity to manifest in our daily lives.

The Simple Path to Awakening

Those who are compassionate and kind find it much easier to become an awakened being. This is because their minds are simple and uncomplicated. Conversely, the more complex your thoughts become, the more difficult it is to realise your true nature. If you find your mind cluttered with worries and distractions, there is a simple yet profound method to return to clarity: chant Namo Amituofo from the beginning to the end of your practice. This is the most effective way to transform a complex, agitated mind into a simple, peaceful one. By focusing entirely on the Buddha-name, you allow your mind to settle into a state of profound stillness.

Dwelling in a Realm of Boundless Charity

The world of a person who embodies compassion and goodness is a world of charity. In such a world, people are filled with peace of mind and genuine joy. From this state of being, light naturally arises. Within this world, we must ensure that our Body, Speech, and Mind are always aligned with compassion and goodness. By doing so, we create good karma and distance ourselves from negative karma. Think good thoughts, look for the good in all things, speak words that are kind and uplifting, and do good deeds for the benefit of others. These actions are the natural continuation of a life rooted in compassion and goodness.

The Blossoming of the Bodhi Fruit

When you live with compassion and goodness, the aspiration to "give rise to all roots of goodness and achieve the fruit of Bodhi" will naturally emerge within your heart. This state of mind is in perfect sync with a successful spiritual practice. It is the essential precursor to attaining Buddhahood.

The Noble Vow to Liberate All Beings

Those who are truly compassionate and kind understand a profound truth: in order to save all beings, you are, in fact, saving yourself. This is why you must engage in diligent practice. Even if you must endure personal suffering, you must ensure that your practice is successful, for only then will you have the true ability to save others. If you possess this noble vow, you should follow the path of the Pure Land: "arouse the Bodhi mind and single-mindedly recite Namo Amituofo."

When you start with your own sincere effort, you will certainly receive the Buddha's blessings. Through diligent practice, you will succeed in your recitation, fulfill your Bodhi vow, and eventually reach the state of an awakened being. Once you have achieved this, you will have the full capacity to save endless suffering beings. Namo Amituofo.