The Path of Changing One's Ways

The Blind Spot of the Ego

During the first session of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju provided essential teachings on the nature of our personal struggles. Often, our greatest obstacles are not external, but internal. We are frequently blinded by the "self," personal ego, and selfishness. These ingrained habits act as a persistent blind spot in our lives. Because of this, we often fail to see our own faults. We commit errors repeatedly without even realising that we have done so. Consequently, the evil consequences of these actions manifest time and again, and we continue to suffer greatly.

The Guidance of a True Spiritual Friend

How can we break free from this cycle of ignorance and suffering? It is vital to encounter a true spiritual friend. When such a teacher points out our mistakes, we must be humble enough to listen. Once we recognise where we have gone wrong, we must act immediately to change our ways. This process of changing one's ways is the foundation of stopping evil and avoiding further suffering. True spiritual friends are rare and difficult to encounter in this world. If you are fortunate enough to meet one, you must understand the importance of diligent practice in correcting your faults. You should feel deep gratitude and cherish this precious connection.

The Awakening of Wisdom

If you can achieve a moment of genuine awakening, that very point of realisation will save your wisdom-life. When we fail to correct our faults, we inevitably cause harm to others and to ourselves. Conversely, when we commit to changing our ways, we are simultaneously saving others and saving ourselves. Often, our personal ego and selfishness manifest without us even noticing, leading us to create karma unconsciously. There is a profound difference between knowing and being aware:

• Knowing without awareness: This is a state where we may intellectually understand a fault but lack the internal vigilance to stop it, making it very difficult to change.
• Knowing with awareness: This is the state of true vigilance where we recognise the fault and have the power to stop it immediately.

Returning to the Light of the True Self

You must strive to maintain this constant state of awareness. Do not allow your mind to become agitated, for that is when negative karma arises. As you continue to practise, you will gradually move closer to perfection. This is a journey of steady progress, step by step, until the light of your true self finally shines forth. By remaining vigilant and committed to this path, you will leave suffering behind and find true happiness. This teaching was recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

Namo Amituofo