Once Awakened, Do Not Fall Back Asleep

The Illusion of Extra Time

My children, have you ever experienced the moment of suddenly waking up, checking the time, and then deciding to drift back into a dream? In such moments, you might tell yourself that it is perfectly fine to sleep for just a little longer. However, you must be vigilant. When you choose to fall back asleep, you have no way of knowing how much time will truly pass. It may not be five or ten minutes, or even an hour or two. In the context of your spiritual journey, this brief moment of indulgence could stretch into an entire lifetime. You might even remain asleep for many lifetimes, unable to rouse yourself from the slumber of ignorance. My children, you could easily be one of those who have fallen into this trap.

The Vitality of Awareness

Therefore, I say to you: once you have awakened, do not fall back asleep! Awareness is a vital condition in the process of your practice. The higher your level of awareness, the more capable you are of remaining vigilant regarding the problems that arise in your life. When you possess true awareness, you can identify these issues and immediately change your ways. You will not allow problems to persist, nor will you easily forgive yourself for mistakes that cause harm to your practice. With sufficient awareness, you can even develop the foresight to prevent these problems from occurring in the first place.

Breaking Free from the False Self

You must raise your level of awareness and resolve: once awakened, do not fall back asleep! Do not allow yourself to indulge the physical body, for doing so will cloud your vision and prevent you from seeing the truth of reality. If you continue to live within the cycle of karma, entangled with your karmic creditors, and trapped within the illusions of your own ego and your personal world, your practice will not only stagnate, but you will also fail to make any real progress. You are merely walking in place while believing you are moving forward.

Living in the Present Moment

My children, I repeat: once awakened, do not fall back asleep! This is the most effective method for maintaining a sharp and sensitive perception. Before you have reached the state of an awakened being, you must remember that this body is subject to impermanence. You do not know when or where your physical form will undergo change. Consequently, you must remain vigilant in every single moment. This sincere heart, which seeks the Truth, will help purify your Body-Mind-Spirit. It will allow your own spirits to awaken alongside you, leading you toward the ultimate goal of true enlightenment and the moment you finally realise your true nature.

Namo Amituofo