The Courage to Step Forward: A Discourse from Namo Amituofo
Teachings from Namo Amituofo
Teachings from Namo Amituofo, recorded by Venerable HaiZe.
January 14, 2022.
Discourse from Namo Amituofo:
My children, is your life still with you? Do you still have breath in your lungs? If you are still here, and if you still possess the precious gift of life, then you must act while you have the chance. While you still have breath, you must take a step forward. This step is not a leap into a bottomless abyss; rather, it is a gateway that allows you to see a different version of yourself.
The Courage to Transcend
This step forward will not be granted to you by chance. It requires perseverance, determination, the ability to let go of gains and losses, and the willingness to relinquish all that you currently possess. Through diligent practice, overcoming obstacles and breaking through difficulties, you will be able to take this step and behold a world that is entirely different from the one you have known.
However, my children, you must remember that to take this step, you require the protection and guidance of the Buddha, your teacher, and Practitioner Su. The Buddha does not wish for you to take a step in the wrong direction. You must uphold the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way, and use the correct methods of practice. Only by stepping in the right direction can you rediscover your Buddha-nature and see your true face once more.
Returning from the Shadows
If you have already taken a wrong turn, do not despair. Whether you currently possess a physical body or not, and regardless of whether you still have breath, there is hope. Even if you have manifested a demon heart, a demon nature, or a demon form, the Buddha is willing to accept you. If you are truly willing to turn back, the Buddha will assist you in correcting your path and returning to the light.
Because you were originally kind, and you were originally a Buddha. You have only entered the demon path because you lacked the opportunity to meet a true spiritual friend who could guide you.
The Invitation to the Assembly
Therefore, no matter where you are at this moment—whether you are among the fourfold assembly of disciples, watching from the sidelines of this Dharma assembly, or listening to these words of the Buddha right now—I invite you to join the assembly in chanting Namo Amituofo. By joining with others in this practice, you will enter the Buddha-light, receive the benefit of , and be reborn in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss.
As soon as you take this step, your Buddha-nature will be revealed! Namo Amituofo.
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Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
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