The Lost Heart

The Fog of Worldly Delusion

Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju, recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe. On this day, May 28, 2022, we reflect upon the nature of the lost heart. In this world, many people wander as if lost in a thick fog, unable to see the direction of their lives. They are lost in the temptations of the external world because their hearts are empty and lack a firm foundation. They are lost in the digital world, seeking temporary satisfaction in virtual realities that offer no true substance. They are lost in the conflicts of human relationships, caught in a web of right and wrong where truth is obscured. They are lost in their own desires and personal habits, and they are lost in the pursuit of worldly fame, wealth, and the settling of grievances. Most significantly, they are lost in Greed, Anger, Ignorance, Arrogance, and Doubt, and the pursuit of wealth, lust, fame, food, and sleep.

The Foundation of True Education

To overcome this pervasive state of being lost, we must turn to the guidance of Buddhist education. We must begin by learning from our elders and parents, cultivating the virtues that form the bedrock of a meaningful life. This process involves several essential steps:

• Learning to be grateful for the kindness we have received.
• Understanding the laws of karma and cause and effect that govern our existence.
• Recognising the true reality of the world as it actually is.

Only through this foundation can we educate the next generation to have a correct direction in life, ensuring they do not become lost in the same illusions that plague so many today.

The Practitioner's Struggle

Even those who have embarked upon the path of practice can become lost. They are often caught between the illusory world and the true reality, struggling to distinguish what is real from what is merely a phantom. They are lost in the tests of life, unable to let go of their attachments or release their burdens. They are lost in their personal ego and habits, which directly contradict the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way. If these bad habits are not changed, how can one avoid the manifestation of suffering? They are lost in the needs and desires of the body, which contradict the purification of the Six Roots, leaving them restless and unable to find peace. Furthermore, they are lost in their own laziness, unable to maintain diligent practice, which leads to stagnation or even regression in their spiritual achievements.

Returning to the Right Path

To walk out of this maze, one needs the guidance of a great teacher and a true spiritual friend. One must have the sincere heart to change one's ways to accept such teachings. One must have the heart to reach an awakened being to accept the tests and breakthroughs that come. One must have the heart to repay the kindness of parents and the Buddha. Only then can one summon the courage for active and persistent practice to save oneself and rescue all beings. One must realise that their spiritual obstacles are heavy to truly develop a heart of repentance. Do not spend your days in delusion. Be fiercely diligent, catch up immediately, and follow Namo Amituofo straight ahead.

Namo Amituofo