The Necessity of Guidance on the Path to Awakening

The Tragedy of Unseen Paths

During the second session of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, we are reminded of the profound fragility of the human condition. It is a fundamental truth that no person is born with the desire to commit errors, nor does anyone truly wish to create negative karma and suffer the resulting retribution. Yet, when we look at the world, we see that countless individuals spend their entire lives trapped in this very cycle. They fill the hells with their suffering, not because they are inherently evil, but because they have never encountered a noble teacher to guide them toward the light.

When one has not met a virtuous mentor to provide direction, one may create sins without even realising it. In other instances, a person may be aware that their actions are harmful, yet they find themselves unable to stop. This inability to change is often a result of being caught in the relentless momentum of their own past actions. They are trapped in the cycle of rebirth, destined to encounter these trials and suffer the consequences of their previous deeds.

The Absence of a Noble Mentor

Many souls suffer because they have no one to teach them, and no noble people to assist them when they are most in need. Without timely intervention or proper instruction, they continue to create karma upon karma. This accumulation of negative energy leads to immense suffering of both body and mind, and in the most tragic cases, it leads to the loss of life and the subsequent retribution of the hells.

It is crucial to understand that this suffering is not caused by others. It is the result of the causes one has sown in the past or in this present life. As the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way dictate, one reaps exactly what one sows. Whether we experience favourable conditions or adverse circumstances, and whether we receive good or bad rewards, it is all a manifestation of the karmic seeds we have planted.

The Rare Blessing of True Guidance

In this present moment, the students of the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre are exceptionally fortunate. You do not merely have someone to teach you; you are being guided by the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, and by the awakened being, Practitioner Su! This is a rare and precious opportunity that few in this world ever receive.

Because you have been granted this guidance, you must cherish it. You must work hard at your diligent practice and never allow yourself to become lazy or overly attached to your own subjective views. You must summon your determination, your perseverance, your steadfastness, and your decisiveness. These qualities are the tools you need to overcome all obstacles on your path.

The Power of Self-Rescue

You must actively work to overcome the states of being drowsy that cloud your mind, as well as the control exerted by your karmic creditors. Remember that when you are suffering, no one can bear that burden for you. While the power of the Buddha is always present to assist and rescue you, you must also take responsibility for your own salvation. It is the combination of these two forces—the Buddha's infinite compassion and your own sincere effort—that will lead to success.

You must cultivate this awareness and practise with absolute sincerity. Only through such dedicated effort can your practice lead to the realisation of your true nature. Only then can you truly leave suffering behind and achieve rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Namo Amituofo.