The Beginning of a Day: Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju
A Discourse on the Practice of Daily Mindfulness
Recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.
The beginning of a new day marks the departure of darkness and the arrival of radiant light. It is a fresh start, a twenty-four-hour cycle that offers us a new opportunity to align our hearts with the Truth. This daily transition is much like the cycle of our lives, where we move from one existence to the next, constantly shifting and evolving through the currents of time.
The Swift Passage of Time
Time is a river that waits for no one; it flows swiftly and relentlessly. Many people pass through life after life without ever truly noticing the passage of time, caught in the cycle of samsara. Yet, this present life is a new beginning, a precious chance to change our trajectory. In this lifetime, you have been fortunate enough to encounter the teachings of Namo Amituofo, as well as the guidance of Practitioner Su and myself.
This is why the Hsiang Kuang Buddhist Centre in Goombungee, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia, serves as such a vital sanctuary. Here, beings have the rare opportunity to be saved from the cycle of rebirth. The fourfold assembly of disciples at Hsiang Kuang is currently gathered here, which is a magnificent and rare occasion. You must cherish this time.
Overcoming the Obstacles of Practice
You must continue to move forward with diligent practice. By maintaining this steady effort, you will gain the great strength needed to face and overcome the obstacles that arise in your spiritual journey. At the beginning of each day, the sunrise at Hsiang Kuang paints the sky in layers of light, bringing a profound sense of peace and serenity to all who witness it.
How you spend this day depends entirely on your heart and your state of mind. If you face the day with a stable and calm heart, letting go of the past and not worrying about the future, you are truly wise. The path of the wise is to chant Namo Amituofo all the way, focusing entirely on the present moment.
Living in the Light of the Buddha
It is best to begin your day by keeping the name of the Buddha continuously in your heart. If you can adapt to the changes in your environment and the hearts of others without letting your own mind be disturbed, you will be able to perform actions that truly benefit all beings. No matter how the day unfolds, if you keep the Buddha-name constant, you will pass through it in peace. This is the manifestation of the Buddha’s working within you.
Namo Amituofo
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About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library