The Evergreen Spirit of the Practitioner

The Symbolism of the Evergreen Pine

Throughout the changing seasons of the year, the pine tree remains a constant symbol of vitality. Regardless of the time or the conditions, it maintains its lush, green appearance. Because of this, people have long regarded the pine as a symbol of longevity and enduring youth. We often use the image of the evergreen pine to praise those who have made significant contributions to the world, as their noble spirit is said to remain as steadfast and lasting as the pine itself.

When a pine tree grows in the harsh, cold environment of high mountains, it demonstrates an even more remarkable life force. It is resilient, unyielding, and refuses to bow to the freezing winds. This is the essence of the pine’s strength—it thrives precisely where others might wither.

Cultivating an Unyielding Spirit

My children, when you engage in your practice, you should strive to emulate the evergreen pine. No matter where you find yourself, and especially when you are in the cold, difficult phases of your life, you must stand tall and remain firm in your resolve. Do not let the hardships of the world break your spirit.

Should you encounter obstacles on your path of practice, you must face them without fear or hesitation. Summon your inner strength, apply your determination, and move forward with courage. It is through this process of overcoming adversity that you truly advance on the path to awakening.

The Goal of True Cultivation

The purpose of your diligent practice is to rediscover your true self. By becoming an awakened being, you are able to save yourself and help other beings leave suffering behind, ultimately escaping the cycle of rebirth in this world. Your goal, as students of Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, is clear: to fulfil your vow and be reborn in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.

Before you reach the state of an awakened being, you are still bound by the laws of karma. You are subject to the cycle of birth, aging, sickness, and death. Even the spirit of a pine tree is merely one of the many creatures within the six realms of existence. While it may possess the outward form and characteristics of a pine, it is still caught in the endless flow of reincarnation, lacking the opportunity to practise and realise its true nature. For such spirits, the cycle of rebirth seems to have no end.

The Precious Opportunity of Human Life

However, you are fortunate. As humans, you have the rare opportunity to engage in diligent practice, to elevate your spirit, and to realise your true nature. You have the chance to break free from the cycle of birth, aging, sickness, and death, and to no longer be a being governed solely by karma. You must understand that obtaining a human body is difficult, and encountering the teachings of the Buddha is even rarer.

The human world is the only place where you can engage in True Cultivation—using the false to realise the true. Therefore, you must be diligent. When you encounter karmic creditors or attached spirits, do not react with anger or fear. Instead, you must change your ways with a sincere heart and engage in deep repenting to resolve these past grievances.

By doing so, you will be able to rediscover your true self more quickly. You will then be equipped to save other beings, helping them leave suffering behind and escape the vast ocean of karmic suffering. Keep your focus, chant Namo Amituofo, and ensure your rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.

Namo Amituofo