Venerable Chang Ren, a dedicated monastic, sought deliverance and guidance at the Hsiang Kuang Buddhist Centre. This interview, recorded on September 28, 2018, captures his reflections on the transformative power of the Pure Land teachings and the necessity of letting go of to rediscover one's true nature in a world often lost in the cycle of confusion.
Venerable Chang Ren speaks:
"To not think for oneself—this is the Truth. A sincere heart dedicated to serving the world and saving humanity is the most effective way to transform the dust and grime of this mundane world. This place is more than just a Pure Land Education Centre; it is the finest place to rediscover who you truly are. In the wider world, people struggle to learn these lessons because most are too tightly gripped by their own egos. Truly, this is the only place that can help you find your true self.
The Illusion of Modern Society
In today's society, there are far too many distortions. Between people, there is a lack of basic trust and authentic relationships; there is simply too much hypocrisy woven into the fabric of daily life. Most people do not realise that these changes are the result of poor education and environmental influences. Furthermore, many factors stem from spiritual attachment. When people become too attached to their own autonomy and personal opinions, their own personalities lead them astray, causing them to lose the ability to truly master their own lives.
I have witnessed many real-world events, one after another, unfolding before my eyes. Every single moment is in flux, and no one can stop these changes. Everyone is sinking together, lost in the cycle. In truth, if only a few people could become enlightened and awake, they could attain clarity. Then, these awakened individuals could lead others, allowing everyone to grow together. By driving forward this positive force, we find the true source of power for societal change.
The Trap of the Self
I know that everyone wants to live according to their own desires and preferences, but they fail to see the reality behind the phenomena. Because of this self-centred mindset, they eventually face the inevitable conclusion of their fate. So many people in this world go through the cycle of birth, aging, sickness, death in exactly this way. In the teachings of the Grandmother, we are instructed to have a great heart and to be magnanimous. We cannot think only of ourselves; we must benefit the masses. A heart dedicated to saving the world, one that does not act for the sake of the self—this is the essence of the Pure Land education. It can transform a sincere heart so that one no longer commits sins for the sake of worldly fame and profit, but instead makes a genuine contribution to the world.
Such good people and good deeds have become far too rare in this world. As long as one thinks only of oneself, it is difficult to manifest any true reality. This is the reason why people today are unable to find their true self. Having observed so many places, I can say with certainty that only here have I truly seen the Truth.
The Path to Freedom
To not think for oneself—this is the Truth. A sincere heart dedicated to serving the world and saving humanity is the most effective way to transform the dust and grime of this mundane world. This place is more than just a Pure Land Education Centre; it is the finest place to rediscover who you truly are. In the wider world, people struggle to learn these lessons because most are too tightly gripped by their own egos. Truly, this is the only place that can help you find your true self. This is the greatest purpose of being alive. If you cannot even see yourself, then what is the point of clinging so tightly to that self?
The cycle of birth, aging, sickness, death exists precisely because there is a self. Without the self, one can truly be more relaxed, at ease, and free from sickness and death. Letting go of the self is actually not difficult, provided that everyone has the confidence to learn these lessons. Your true self is right there within your own heart. Everyone has the opportunity to find themselves again; it all depends on whether you are willing to regain your meditative concentration and skills.
A Call to Practice
This is an inconceivable place, but it requires everyone to be willing to act with sincerity. You must understand the importance of letting go. The Grandmother teaches here with such earnest, painstaking effort, not for any reward, but for the transmission of the Truth of the Buddha’s teachings. I dedicate my heart to supporting the transmission of all these Dharmas, hoping only that everyone can attain the best possible outcome. I am grateful for the Grandmother’s hard work, and I am grateful for the of the Buddha. ."
This interview was recorded by the chief writer, Disciple Shi Fa Xi.
