The Path of Saving Others and Being Saved

The Goal of Awakening

Awakening is the ultimate goal for every practitioner on the path of the Buddha. To understand this journey, consider the metaphor of someone who does not know how to swim. When they first begin to learn, they will inevitably choke on water. They must experience the discomfort and the fear of this struggle to truly understand the danger of drowning. It is only through this direct experience that one can develop the necessary survival skills, master the techniques of swimming, and eventually become proficient in the water.

Only after you have mastered these skills yourself can you truly be in a position to save others. If you cannot keep yourself afloat, how can you hope to rescue those who are struggling in the deep waters of samsara?

The Rigorous Path of Training

In the world of rescue, there are different roles, such as swimming coaches and lifeguards. These roles are distinguished by the depth and refinement of their technical skills. A coach, for instance, possesses a higher level of expertise than a lifeguard. Regardless of the specific title or role, every individual must undergo a rigorous series of training sessions and assessments before they are qualified to serve in such a capacity.

This is much like our own spiritual practice. We must diligently cultivate our own precepts, concentration, and wisdom. We must undergo the internal training of the mind to ensure that we are not merely playing in the water, but are truly prepared to handle the currents of life and death.

The Power of Keen Observation

A successful coach or lifeguard must possess two vital qualities: keen observation and effective rescue ability. When they look at the water, they do not see only the surface. They are sensitive to the subtle movements of those around them. If they notice that someone’s posture in the water is slightly off, they immediately recognise the potential for drowning. They act swiftly to provide aid, successfully rescuing the person before they fall into a life-threatening situation.

Conversely, a rescuer who lacks sufficient sensitivity or skill will not act until the person is already in the throes of drowning and crying out for help. In such cases, the rescuer may arrive too late, and the person may not be saved. This is why we must be vigilant in our practice, sharpening our awareness so that we may help others before their suffering becomes insurmountable.

A Call to Reflection

As you walk this path, you must ask yourself: what is your role? Do you aspire to be the coach or the lifeguard who is capable of saving others? Or are you still the one who is merely playing in the water, unaware of the dangers of drowning in the cycle of rebirth? The choice is yours, and the time to cultivate your skills is now. Do not let your practice remain superficial. Strive to become a true protector of beings, guided by the light of Namo Amituofo.

Namo Amituofo