The Path to Awakening: A Journey of Realisation

Venerable Chang Gao, a dedicated monastic practitioner, shares his profound reflections on the essence of Buddhist practice and the transformative power of the Dharma. This interview, recorded on July 26, 2019, captures his insights on the journey of self-cultivation and the vital mission of delivering beings to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss under the guidance of Practitioner Su at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre.

Venerable Chang Gao speaks:

"Why did the ancient practitioners all engage in pilgrimages? Beyond their internal cultivation, they often needed to traverse great rivers and vast landscapes to truly discover the profound meaning of practice. Within this human body, we possess feelings and deep insights; it is through these very experiences that we cultivate a great, compassionate heart. In ancient times, the primary method of practice was through asceticism—a way to sharpen one's will and temper the spirit. As this inner strength grew and matured, it was then shared with others, allowing them to break through delusion and attain enlightenment.

The Modern Struggle and the Light of Dharma

The world today is vastly different from the past. We are constantly buffeted by external environments that leave us feeling scattered, restless, and prone to falling into the trap of idle gossip and hearsay. When you look at the different faces on the streets or on public transport, you have to wonder: beneath those expressions, which one is the most authentic self? Only the individual truly knows. The Buddha’s teachings are like the moon, illuminating the darkness and serving as a guiding lamp. This lamp is always present; the question is whether we are willing to use our hearts to truly experience it.

The Balance of Self-Power and Buddha-Power

In our practice, beyond the support of the Buddha’s power, what is even more critical is our own self-power. How much have we purified ourselves during our practice? How much have we realised within that purity? And when we encounter external circumstances, how much have we managed to subdue our own personalities? When external situations arise, they test us: will we follow our habitual tendencies, or will we break through them? When we face grievances, do we rush to explain ourselves to preserve our own innocence, or do we practise the perfection of Patience, remaining unmoved and unaffected? When we see the faults of others, do we cling to them, or do we use them as a warning for ourselves? When we see others doing well, can we offer sincere praise? Every little adjustment in our practice contributes to our purity. To see without being attached to what is seen—to know, yet possess a mind-capacity vast enough to embrace everything—this is the goal.

The Solid Foundation of True Practice

We must elevate the quality of our hearts. If our practice stops at mere words and is not truly implemented in our actions, we will never progress. The more we put it into practice, the more wisdom we will gain. With this clear wisdom, we can truly recognise those who are also clear. Although I, Chang Gao, have been in the Buddhist world for some time, my true internal breakthroughs and adjustments were not as solid as they became after I began following Practitioner Su. By listening to the sutras, understanding their meanings, and participating in the work of Chao Du, I have opened my eyes to the vastness of the universe. Countless Bodhisattvas across the Milky Way hold Practitioner Su in the highest regard. Practitioner Su uses true, great power to help everyone understand the truth of the universe.

A Universal Mission of Deliverance

Spirits are not meant to linger in one place or wander aimlessly; their true purpose is to rely on the single Buddha-name to be reborn in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. This is what Practitioner Su leads us to do every single day across the universe—spreading the Buddha’s teachings and spreading Goodness. I, along with my fellow practitioners, vow to follow this path, never fearing the journey ahead. How many stubborn beings throughout the universe have been transformed by the Buddha’s influence? We are filled with gratitude for the compassionate power of Namo Amituofo. Namo Amituofo is unborn and undying."

Chang Gao

Recorded by the Buddhist disciple Shi Faxin.