Navigating the Turning Points of Life

Words of Namo Amituofo, recorded by Venerable HaiZe.

As we journey through this life, we often find ourselves at significant turning points. These moments are like a winding mountain path that suddenly shifts direction, leading us into new and unfamiliar territory. At these junctures, the nature of our experiences can shift dramatically:

• Goodness may transform into adversity, or adversity may be transformed into Goodness through our practice.
• What was once unfamiliar and strange may become second nature through diligent effort.
• Conversely, what we once knew well may suddenly feel distant or foreign as our perspective evolves.

These various shifts and turning points are all part of the constant changes of the world and the nature of impermanence. Everything in the world is in a state of flux, yet there is something within you that remains untouched by this movement.

The Unchanging Essence Within

Your true self is inherently still and unmoving. It is empty of form, yet it is the very source from which all phenomena manifest. Throughout the passage of countless years and the endless cycles of rebirth throughout your many lives, your true self remains constant. It is neither born nor destroyed, neither defiled nor pure, neither increasing nor decreasing. It is the eternal presence that resides at the core of your being.

Because this true self is eternal, once you have realised your true nature, you gain the ability to face different situations with equanimity. You learn to adapt to the changing circumstances of the world while remaining anchored in your original nature. This is the art of those who have realised their true nature: the body may move and adapt to the environment, responding to the person’s potential of the beings you encounter, but the heart remains forever still and unmoved.

The Mastery of Stillness Amidst Change

When Buddha or Bodhisattva, patriarchs and venerable masters, or those who have realised their true nature manifest in this world, they do not cling to fixed methods. Instead, they adapt their teachings to the person, the time, and the place. Every shift in their approach is a skilful at transformation means designed to:

• Teach and guide beings toward the path of liberation.
• Assist practitioners in deepening their own spiritual practice.
• Help beings awaken to the magnificent and profound nature of the Buddha’s teachings.
• Resolve the doubts and misunderstandings that cloud the mind.

When you reach a turning point in your own life, success depends on three essential pillars: your Faith, your vow, and your action. These are the foundations that allow you to navigate change with grace and purpose.

The Foundation of Faith

Having faith in Namo Amituofo is the most fundamental condition for your practice. Throughout your journey, you will inevitably encounter various tests and challenges. These moments are specifically designed to examine the depth of your faith. You cannot wait for a crisis to arrive before you decide to trust in Namo Amituofo; you must build this faith in your daily life.

You must internalise this faith until it becomes an inseparable part of your heart. Only then, when you are faced with a difficult test, will you have the strength to confront it, take responsibility for your actions, and successfully overcome the obstacle. To meet every change and every turning point with compassion and Wisdom is the true duty of a practitioner. Namo Amituofo.