The Path of Self-Transformation

Venerable Chang Gao, a dedicated practitioner who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, currently resides at the Centre. This interview, which explores the profound necessity of internal transformation and the refinement of one's character, was recorded by the chief writer, Shi Fajing, on June 14, 2023.

Venerable Chang Gao speaks:

"Namo Amituofo. Why is it that some people are able to take great strides forward in their practice, while others seem to remain stagnant? Why is it that some, through listening to the Dharma, begin to perceive their own personality traits, while others listen to the sutras yet fail to understand themselves? They remain unable to grasp the true nature of their own temperament and disposition.

The Foundation of Spiritual Progress

The questions I have just raised are indeed related to each individual's root capacity. However, regardless of whether one is of sharp or dull capacity, everyone can change themselves through practice. The difference lies only in the timing, as each person must wait for their own unique Causal Conditions to ripen.

Beyond the differences in root capacity, whether one truly benefits from practice depends on the constant habit of reflecting inward and self-examining. The degree of progress one makes is directly proportional to the effort one invests. It is a simple truth: for every measure of cultivation, there is a corresponding measure of harvest.

The Necessity of Tempering One's Personality

Tempering and changing one's personality is a vital link in spiritual practice. Yet, most people find their own personalities elusive and difficult to comprehend. There are many reasons for this, but I would like to highlight the situations most commonly seen in people today.

Firstly, one may listen to the Dharma too infrequently, or while listening, one may be distracted by external environments or internal disturbances. Consequently, the teachings fail to penetrate the heart, making it impossible to achieve the effect of introspection in daily life. Without this, one cannot perceive their own personality traits, and thus, cannot achieve a thorough transformation.

The Obstacles to Self-Awareness

Secondly, people are prone to blaming others for their faults. When any conflict arises, the first instinct is to point a finger at the other party, believing that the problem lies entirely with them. In doing so, it becomes impossible to see the personality traits one is manifesting within that event. Sometimes, these traits are quietly hidden, and they may not be immediately apparent. However, if one can dedicate more time to introspection, one will gradually sharpen their sensitivity and begin to see their own problems and personality flaws.

Thirdly, one may not have yet made the vow to change. The willingness to change oneself is a powerful force in practice. This vow can receive the Buddha's blessing. But if this vow is missing, the motivation for change disappears. Naturally, listening to the Dharma remains just listening; it cannot be internalized, and it becomes even harder to speak of any transformative effect.

Overcoming Spiritual Interference

Fourthly, the body may not be under one's own control. When one's karmic creditors, external spirits, or demon crowds interfere with and control the body, it becomes difficult for the practitioner to be the master of their own vessel. As one tries to change their personality, there is naturally a resistance acting as an obstacle. At such times, what is needed is sincere repenting, diligent prostrations, and chanting Buddha's name to achieve purification. One must seek the Buddha's blessing and ask all beings to grant one the opportunity to change, so that when this body is transformed, it may possess a greater capacity to save beings and help them leave suffering behind.

The Wisdom of Letting Go

Why must we change? Let me give you an example. When two people are involved in a fierce conflict, why should one choose to change oneself and opt to yield? When you begin to learn how to temper your personality and change your internal state, you will discover that in the conflict between two parties, there is no such thing as winning or losing. That is merely a worldly perspective. Yielding is not equivalent to losing. Instead, it allows both yourself and the other person to maintain a calm heart in the midst of the event, handling the situation with Wisdom and reason. Such a mental note is compassionate, broad-minded, and full of Goodness. When you try to achieve this, you will feel a sense of peace in your heart. This kind of change is helping you grow, bit by bit.

Spiritual practice requires a genuine, firm determination to work hard and overcome various obstacles. One must endure what others cannot endure and perform acts that others cannot perform. By gradually tempering your internal nature, making a vow to serve all beings, and resolving the conflict through karma, you will be able to take great strides forward.

Namo Amituofo."