The Essence of True Practice

The Path of Self-Refinement

In its broadest sense, the term "practice" refers to the process of correcting one's behaviour, the "self," personal ego, and selfishness. To delve deeper, it is the deliberate refinement of these aspects of the self to achieve purification and true self. The ultimate goal is to save oneself and others, helping all beings leave suffering behind and gain happiness. For those of us living in this Dharma-ending age, the purpose of practice extends beyond personal Awakening. Our final objective is to guide ourselves and all suffering beings toward rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.

Many people mistakenly believe that practice is a serious, solemn task reserved exclusively for monastics or dedicated lay practitioners. In truth, practice is not the sole domain of religious individuals. Correcting one's behaviour, the "self," personal ego, and selfishness is a universal necessity. It transcends age, status, nationality, and belief. It is a task that requires our constant attention, regardless of where we are or what we are doing.

The Sacred Rhythm of Daily Life

Every individual has the capacity to engage in practice. It is not found only in meditation halls, but in the mundane actions of our daily lives. Consider the following examples of how practice manifests in our routine:

• Mindful Eating:
• Eating in silence, feeling content, and expressing a Heart of Gratitude for the nourishment provided.Dignified Conduct:
• Maintaining a gentle attitude while drinking water and ensuring that our clothing is clean and appropriate.Personal Hygiene:
• Being mindful of cleanliness and hygiene in the restroom, and ensuring our physical health is well-maintained.Graceful Movement:
• Walking with purpose rather than engaging in boisterous play or idle chatter.Speech and Interaction:
• Speaking with kindness and avoiding loud, disruptive noises.Social Harmony:
• Interacting harmoniously with classmates at school and colleagues at work.Responsibility: Adhering to the rules of examination halls and maintaining patience while driving.

These are not merely social etiquettes; they are the very essence of practice. When we act with awareness, we are refining our character and aligning ourselves with the Truth.

Wisdom Found in the Mirror of Mistakes

True practice is the wisdom to know what is appropriate before a mistake is even made. It is the ability to refrain from actions that would harm oneself or others. Adhering to family rules, school regulations, national laws, and the various Precepts are all forms of practice. When a child makes a mistake and is corrected by an adult, they must reflect on what was said, thought, or done incorrectly. They must resolve to change their ways and ensure the error is not repeated. Through the guidance of parents and teachers, children learn to distinguish between what should and should not be done. When they face the consequences of their mistakes, they should do so with a Heart of Gratitude, for this, too, is a vital part of their practice.

This principle applies to our professional and social lives as well. If we hold improper thoughts, views, or behaviours, we must correct them immediately to align with appropriate conduct. Even receiving a traffic ticket for violating road rules is an opportunity for practice; we must learn from the experience to avoid repeating the error. When people break the law and face sanctions, the subsequent resolve to never repeat the offence is also a form of practice.

The Diligent Journey of the Practitioner

Monastics engage in diligent practice under the support of true spiritual friends, focusing on purification and the development of their Six Sense Organs: eyes, ears, nose, tongue, body, and mind. They strive to understand the truth of reality and cultivate a keen awareness. If they happen to violate the Precepts, they accept the admonishments and punishments of the temple, resolving never to repeat the transgression. This is the essence of their practice. Similarly, lay practitioners can seek out a suitable bodhimanda. Through listening to sutras and hearing the Dharma, and interacting with the fourfold assembly, they can identify their own erroneous views and thoughts. Correcting these errors is the heart of their practice.

The Unfolding of Innate Awareness

True practice resides in every detail. It is found in the moments before we even realise we have noticed something, thought of something, or discovered something. When our Six Roots interact with the Six Dusts, the process is natural and profound: seeing and immediately understanding the nature of what is before us; hearing and instantly grasping the underlying meaning; detecting a scent and knowing its quality; tasting food and discerning its essence; feeling the physical sensations of the world; and observing the arising of delusions, discriminations, and attachments.

As our Six Roots connect with the external world, various skills and supernatural powers naturally manifest. These abilities do not rely on external forces, nor are they controlled by outside influences. They are a natural part of our keen awareness. When used for the benefit of beings, these abilities become tools to help them leave suffering behind.

A Sanctuary for the Soul

The lectures, Dharma talks, television programmes, digital media, books, Dharma Jewels, scriptures, Buddha-name recitation machines, and the support of fellow practitioners all serve as auxiliary materials for our practice. Furthermore, the guidance of a true spiritual friend and a supportive environment are crucial components of this journey. In today's complex society, achieving true purification is not an easy task. This is why a temple or bodhimanda is so essential; it provides a suitable, quiet, kind, and gentle environment for practice. In such a space, our Body-Mind-Spirit is purified, and our spiritual nature is elevated.

Practitioners take the salvation of all beings and rebirth in the Western Pure Land as their personal mission. Even in old age, this work does not cease. Through their experience and virtuous conduct, they inspire and transform the younger generation and all who come into contact with them. This is how we lead and receive beings, creating vast Dharma affinity. The Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia is such a rare and precious bodhimanda—a Western Pure Land on Earth. It is a sacred place for those who wish to practise, purify themselves, elevate their spiritual nature, realise their true self, and help others be reborn in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. We welcome all who have the karmic affinity to visit and learn with us.

Recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Shi Haiyuan.

Namo Amituofo