Swiftly Return to the Right Path

The Journey on the Pure Land Path

On the ninth of October, 2021, during the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju offered these compassionate words to all practitioners. My dear children, imagine your life as a journey along the great highway of the Pure Land. This path leads directly to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, the home of our original nature. However, it is easy to become distracted by the scenery of the world or the turbulence of our own minds. If you find that you have inadvertently strayed from this path, do not panic. Panic only clouds the mind further and creates more obstacles. Instead, you must immediately return to the right path by lifting up the Buddha-name. No matter how long you have been wandering, you will always find the way back to where you started. However, every moment spent in confusion is a moment lost, consuming your precious time and energy, and delaying your eventual return to your true home in the Western Pure Land.

The Urgency of Returning to the Right Path

As students of the Pure Land, you must realise that life is incredibly precious. It is a fleeting opportunity that should never be squandered. If you find yourself lost in the wilderness of worldly desires or incorrect views, you must act with speed to turn back to the right path. Do not let the time pass by, leaving you with nothing to show for your efforts. The purpose of your existence is to leave suffering behind and find true happiness, and this can only be achieved through consistent, diligent practice. When you notice that you have drifted, do not dwell on the mistake; simply correct your course and continue forward with renewed focus.

The Indestructible Power of the Buddha-name

Even a single recitation of Namo Amituofo is magnificent and rare. It is a Vajra Seed planted deep within your consciousness. Once this seed enters your ear-root, it becomes a permanent seed of the Way, ensuring that you will eventually reach liberation. This seed is indestructible; it remains within you, waiting for the right conditions to blossom. Therefore, even in your darkest moments, the Buddha-name remains your most powerful tool for transformation. It is the light that guides you through the fog of samsara, ensuring that you are never truly lost, provided you are willing to call upon it.

Cultivating the True Self

You must remain vigilant against the 'self,' personal ego, and selfishness. When your thoughts begin to wander, when your speech becomes incorrect, or when your actions deviate from the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way, you must be alert. These are the signs that you have strayed. You must quickly turn back to the right path. If you are fortunate enough to encounter a true spiritual friend, listen to their guidance and accept their support. Be willing to change your ways, and then change them again if necessary. It is through this process of constant refinement and humble correction that you will finally find your way back to your original, true nature. Namo Amituofo.