The Call to Fierce Diligence

Recorded by the chief writer, Venerable HaiZe.

October 2, 2021

Teachings from Namo Amituofo:

My children, how much of your life has already passed? How much time do you truly have remaining? Regardless of the answer, time slips away in the blink of an eye, passing by in hurried seconds. If you spend your days without accumulating merit and instead allow yourself to fall into error, your life is being wasted in a state of constant depletion.

The Fleeting Nature of Our Precious Life

If you wish to make your life meaningful, you must shift your focus from idle talk to dedicated action. You must be fiercely diligent in your practice. To achieve this, you must learn to overcome the common obstacles that hinder your progress:

• Drowsiness: The tendency to fall into a dull, lethargic state during meditation or chanting.
• Agitation: The restless mind that prevents you from settling into deep concentration.
• Self-Indulgence: The habit of making excuses for your own shortcomings or forgiving your own laziness.

If you can master these, your practice will become a straightforward advance, and your life will begin to gain true value.

The Path of Fierce Diligence

What does it mean to be fiercely diligent? It is the unwavering commitment to remove every difficulty and obstacle that stands in your way. It requires a breakthrough in your willingness to change your ways, ensuring that the "self," personal ego, and selfishness do not resurface. You must let go of all attachments and accept that everything is as it should be. By following the natural flow of the universe and acting with a selfless heart for the benefit of all beings, you align yourself with the Truth.

Transforming Adversity into Spiritual Growth

Everything you experience within your body and mind—whether it is the process of ageing, the onset of illness, or the shifting of your emotions—should be viewed as a precious opportunity for growth. These are not hindrances; they are conditions that can help you advance further on your path. Do not let these challenges become obstacles to your practice. Instead, use them as motivation to double or even triple your efforts. You must be cautious and reflect deeply on your thoughts, making a firm resolution to thoroughly change the "self," personal ego, and selfishness.

The Ultimate Goal: Awakening

To preserve your energy and maintain your focus, you must clear your mind of the following:

• Delusions: False perceptions that cloud your understanding of reality.
• Messy thoughts: The chaotic mental chatter that distracts you from the Buddha-name.
• Anger: The destructive emotions that burn away your accumulated merit.

Through the process of purification, you will find the strength to continue your journey. Your steps forward must be resolute; do not stop until you have reached your destination. You must continue this path with unwavering determination until you finally realise your true nature and become an awakened being.

Namo Amituofo