Looking Inward: The Path to True Awakening

Words of Namo Amituofo. Chief Writer: Venerable HaiZe.

19 November 2022

The Essential Practice of Self-Reflection

The path of practice is a profound journey of returning to one's true self. Among all the lessons one must learn, the practice of looking inward and engaging in deep self-reflection is perhaps the most vital. It is the foundation upon which all other spiritual progress is built.

When you observe the world, you must realise that everything you see is complex. Matters of right and wrong are rarely as simple as they appear on the surface. You only see fragments of a situation, yet every event is governed by deep causes and consequences that span across time. If you judge others based on these fleeting glimpses, you will inevitably give rise to negative thoughts and anger.

The Hidden Dangers of Judgment

When you allow anger to take root in your heart, the consequences are severe. This is akin to a fire that burns down the entire forest of your accumulated merits. Furthermore, such negative states of mind invite serious spiritual repercussions:

• It attracts heavy karma that binds you to the cycle of rebirth.
• It draws your karmic creditors closer, as your anger provides them with the conditions to seek balance.
• It creates openings for attached spirits to enter your body, further clouding your mind and spirit.

This is a heavy price to pay, and it is truly not worth it. Ultimately, the person who suffers the most from this cycle of negativity is you.

Transforming Your Habits

Your personality and your habitual tendencies are the very things you must work to transform. You must be diligent in your practice to change your ways. If you do not, you will continue to suffer, and your karmic creditors will remain trapped in this cycle of pain alongside you. Instead, strive to maintain a heart that is calm and compassionate, regardless of the changes occurring in your environment.

When you look inward, you can accept the circumstances before you with a peaceful and steady heart. This is how you pass the tests presented by the external world.

Responding with Gratitude

If others offer you their opinions or point out your shortcomings, you should always receive them with a heart of gratitude. Never rush to argue or defend yourself, as this only fuels the fires of anger. If your self-reflection reveals that you have indeed made a mistake, then change your ways immediately. If you find that you have not erred, then take the feedback as a warning and a reminder to remain vigilant so that you do not commit such an error in the future. This is the proper attitude and approach for any sincere practitioner.

The Internal Nature of the Dharma

Remember that learning the Dharma is an internal study. It is a journey of looking within and reflecting upon the state of your own heart. It is not an external pursuit of observing or criticising others. When you focus your energy on diligent practice, you will eventually find your way back to your true self.

Namo Amituofo.