Reflecting on the Earth
An Interview with Venerable Changren
Recorded on November 8, 2019
This is a record of an interview with Venerable Changren, who offers profound reflections on the state of our world and the path to spiritual . This interview was recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxi, on November 8, 2019.
Venerable Changren speaks:
"Namo Amituofo. I am Venerable Changren. When we look at the human world, we see a history spanning tens of millions of years. It is difficult to even imagine the sheer variety of lives lived throughout this time. Human existence has become a tapestry woven with countless thoughts and desires, creating a world filled with imagination. Humanity has developed so many spaces, so many technologies, and such advanced living environments, yet these very things have fostered a multitude of changes within the human heart.
The Burden of Modern Complexity
In this world, humans have moved from having nothing to possessing everything, spanning across vast stretches of time and space. It is now nearly impossible to find a world that is simple and free from complex thoughts. The world is no longer what it once was. Modern society is incredibly intricate, and for the sake of competition and survival, there is so much conflict. Every person is driven by their own personal agendas. It seems that if one does not have a calculating heart in this society, one will surely suffer a loss. But in reality, this mindset only serves to cover our society in dark, heavy clouds of turmoil.
People do not understand the transformative power of Goodness. They simply follow the trends, struggling to secure their own little corner of the world. But think about it—in this living space, it is not just humans who exist. If we speak of what is visible, how many other species share this earth with us? And if we consider what is invisible to the human eye, there is an immeasurable and boundless space filled with other spirits. We all coexist in this space. Although competition seems inevitable, I must ask: within this vast expanse, are you able to find a moment of true awakening?
The Unseen Realms and Our Shared Existence
Reflect on the earth, reflect on the space around you, and reflect on your true self. What are you actually able to see? The earth and the space it occupies are truly immeasurable and boundless, yet we each occupy only a tiny, insignificant position. Time and space continue to turn, moving forward relentlessly. Are you simply drifting with the current, or are you capable of stopping your footsteps to find your true self?
Returning to the True Self
Within our true self-nature lies immeasurable and boundless light. In contrast, the human world is nothing more than a dim, illusory dream. Although the space around us remains, we must ask ourselves: as we observe the changes of the earth, has our own spirit changed its form? This is something every one of us should deeply explore.
I am deeply grateful for the of the Buddha and the compassion of Grandmother. Namo Amituofo."
More from Master Chang Ren
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About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library