Venerable Yongning, a dedicated monastic who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Buddhist Centre, currently resides and practises at the centre. This interview was recorded on August 20, 2019, capturing the Venerable's reflections on the nature of worldly existence and the path of diligent practice.
Venerable Yongning speaks:
". Worldly affairs are inseparable from the . The relationships we currently hold in this world are merely temporary possessions; we cannot cling to them, nor can we force them to remain. To have obtained this human body once more is a profound opportunity. It signifies that we each carry a unique mission and a specific realisation to achieve. The fourfold assembly of disciples who have gathered here at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre have all, at some point in the past, made a vow to assist this world. That is the only reason we are able to congregate here today.
The Hidden Within
Deep within the foundation of every one of us lies a seed of compassion. However, it has been buried by the dust and grime of the world, causing us to wander through the six realms of existence. Now, at last, we have encountered the Buddha and auspicious conditions. We have the opportunity to follow Practitioner Su, to learn, and to be surrounded by fellow practitioners who are all striving for the same goal. We must learn to be tolerant of one another and grow together. If we focus on our own conduct and support others in theirs, our hearts will not be stirred by unnecessary waves of emotion. Each person possesses different abilities and occupies a different position; as long as you fulfil your own duties well, there is no need to scrutinise others.
The Dangers of the Tongue
In our practice, we must strictly avoid double-tongued speech and harsh words. Speaking too much only leads to mistakes, creates negative , and causes unnecessary turbulence for others, which is a great harm to all involved. You must realise that encountering the Buddha during this lifetime is a rare blessing. We should cherish every moment of our practice and align our own vows with the Buddha's to help all sentient beings. Only when you view the suffering of others as your own will you truly understand the need for diligent practice. When you see the confusion in others, if there is a karmic affinity, reach out and help them; if there is no affinity, then let it go with the flow of conditions.
The Infinite Potential of the Human Body
Cultivate a greater mind-capacity and a heart that is fearless. On the path of saving beings, there will be many tests—tests of this physical body and tests of how firm your vow really is. As you walk this path, examine your heart: is it becoming increasingly calm and settled, or are you still standing in the same place? Often, when your thoughts are scattered, you must realise that you are not yet the master of your own mind. Your emotions rise and fall with the physical body. From the perspective of the void, we are not yet compassionate enough.
The Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre has opened up a space of infinite potential. The human body is like the universe itself, containing boundless capacity and ability. Every person can reclaim this. In relation to the void, the human body is actually one and the same, without distinction; it is possible to attain total mastery within it. If you do not wish to remain a wandering spirit, you should step forward and become one who helps those spirits. As long as you are willing, everyone can achieve this.
The Path of True Giving
Now, with the great Dharma assembly before us, the fourfold assembly must each stand in their proper place. You should be clear and certain about which path you are taking. Stabilise your body and mind, and be sincere in your service to all beings. There is no such thing as 'what I should have,' 'what I own,' or 'what I enjoy.' There is only the act of truly being a person who gives. You will not suffer any loss; you will only gain. Let us encourage one another in this.
