Staying Calm in Changing Circumstances

On the fourth of June, 2019, Master Xuanzhuang offered profound insights into the nature of stability and wisdom. People are often gripped by fear and anxiety when faced with unexpected situations. They worry that they will be caught off guard, unable to cope, or that their lack of preparation will lead to insurmountable problems and irreversible consequences. Consequently, they spend their lives attempting to build elaborate preventative measures, hoping to mitigate the impact of potential disasters. However, in the eyes of those who have walked the path of true practice, one can discern whether a person possesses the genuine wisdom and capability to face and resolve these challenges simply by observing how they navigate the process of preparation.

The Wisdom of a Still Mind

The more stable one's heart is, the more clearly one's Wisdom manifests. Because the mind is pure and free from the defilements of greed, anger, and ignorance, such a person can see the root causes of events with absolute clarity. They can even predict the consequences of their actions with remarkable accuracy. Because they possess this deep insight, they remain calm and composed, never losing their footing when circumstances change. They are able to make the correct judgements in the heat of the moment, transforming dangerous situations into safe ones, minimising losses, and navigating through crises with grace. A practitioner who has truly attained the power of meditative concentration possesses this extraordinary ability.

Beyond Worldly Preparation

A true practitioner does not need to constantly dwell on negative possibilities or obsessively devise preventative strategies. Even if they do take precautions, they do so by following the natural flow of Causal Conditions, allowing things to unfold as they should. This approach naturally achieves the desired outcome without the need for frantic struggle. This is a capability that emerges spontaneously as a result of diligent practice. In fact, the solutions that arise from this state of being are often far more complete and comprehensive than any plan devised by an ordinary mind. This is one of the many benefits brought about by true practice, enabling one to save oneself and, subsequently, to save others. If a person did not originally possess such capabilities in their destiny, but these abilities manifest through the purification of their practice, it is a clear sign that their practice is effective and that they are successfully changing their own fate.

The Power to Transform Environments

If an ordinary person in this world possesses such capabilities, it is often merely a part of their karmic retribution—a talent brought forth from their destiny in this lifetime. Such a person should be even more diligent in using this ability to study the Dharma and practise Buddhism, so that this talent may be further purified. Only then will they have the opportunity to realise their true nature and save the world. Otherwise, they remain an ordinary being trapped in the cycle of birth and death. While such worldly abilities may bring temporary benefits in this human world, they cannot lead one to transcend the cycle of rebirth, nor do they provide the opportunity to be reborn in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.

Once a practitioner has achieved self-purification and Awakening, they can accept and embrace all limitations, even when the people, events, and environments around them are less than ideal. They possess the power to transform the environment rather than being controlled by it. Even when placed in entirely new or challenging situations, they remain calm and fearless. They are able to teach and help other beings, guiding them out of their various blind spots and dilemmas. They can see problems that others cannot perceive and resolve issues that others are afraid to face or unable to solve. Often, they can sense a problem the moment it begins to emerge and stop it in its tracks, preventing future harm.

A Beacon of Peace

Throughout history, true practitioners who possess genuine virtue and accomplishment have often brought peace to the places they visit. Wherever they travel or reside, they frequently bring an end to disasters, ensuring that the country remains prosperous and the people live in harmony. They have the power to resolve complex conflicts and turn dangerous situations into safe ones. It is for this reason that kings, ministers, and local people have often requested such masters to stay in their regions. This is the natural result of their practice. A practitioner who truly keeps the suffering of all beings in their heart and works to help them leave suffering behind will never become arrogant or seek fame and profit. Instead, they remain humble, constantly observing the Causal Conditions to teach others according to their capacity, and they remain ever-vigilant, never allowing themselves to become lax.

The Path Forward

If you are fortunate enough to encounter such a practitioner, you must cherish this precious Dharma affinity. Follow them, learn from them, and strive with diligent practice. Aspire to achieve the same Awakening as your teacher as soon as possible. By doing so, you will be able to save those who have a karmic connection with you, helping them leave suffering behind and find happiness. Make the vow to chant the name of Namo Amituofo, or receive the benefit of Chao Du, so that you may be reborn in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.

This interview and message were recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Shi Haize.

Namo Amituofo