The Path of Mindfulness and Self-Correction

The Compassionate Guidance of the Teacher

During the second session of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju offered these compassionate words to all practitioners. He reminded us that if you, as a child of the Buddha, have committed errors or if your conduct remains unrefined, I—your Teacher—will not tire of reminding you again and again. This is because these deep-seated habits are the very spiritual obstacles that prevent your spiritual progress. If you fail to change your ways, if you lack self-awareness, and if you do not possess the vigilance to change, you will inevitably repeat the same mistakes. By doing so, you continue to create negative karma and will eventually suffer the painful consequences of your own actions.

The Urgency of Awakening

We are currently in a rare and precious period of pure cultivation. This is the most opportune time for you to search within and rediscover your true self. If you allow this time to slip away easily, how will you ever be able to transcend the suffering of birth, old age, sickness, and death? How will you ever be able to become an awakened being and engage in the work of saving the world? You must ask yourself: do you wish to continue being reincarnated within the cycle of suffering, or do you truly wish to fulfil your vow to reach the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss? Mindfulness is the key. Where you find yourself lacking, you must change your ways. When you observe your heart with purity, you will find that awareness is present in every moment.

Cultivating Mindfulness in Every Action

You must be mindful of your speech and conduct. Do not let idle, playful words escape your lips, for such behaviour shows a lack of seriousness and causes you to lose your dignity as a practitioner. Be mindful during your meals; this is a time for quiet reflection, not for unnecessary chatter. When you enter the Buddha hall, you should maintain silence. Be mindful of children running and jumping, as such disturbances disrupt the pure environment of cultivation and are truly a grave fault. You should teach them to walk with light steps, for this is also a way to restrain the body and the heart.

The Transformative Power of Daily Practice

Do not take your morning and evening lessons lightly. Through the practice of repenting and diligent practice, you can dissolve karma that has accumulated over countless lifetimes. When you perform prostrations, the Buddha-light illuminates your entire body. As you keep the Buddha-name circling within your heart and ears, your mind will become clear, your eyes will become bright, and you will experience the purification of the Six Roots. By maintaining this constant mindfulness, you ensure that your path to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss remains clear and unobstructed. May you always keep these teachings close to your heart, for they are the foundation of your journey toward becoming an awakened being and Buddhahood.

Namo Amituofo