The Path to Clarity and Awakening

During the second session of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, we are reminded of the profound significance of clarity. To clarify the heart and see one's true nature, and through this, to realise one's true nature and attain Buddhahood, is the singular, noble goal for every person who walks the path of the Buddha.

The Rigour of the Spiritual Path

You must understand that this goal is not something that can be attained through idle wishing, nor is it a gift that falls easily into one's hands. It is not a matter of chance or mere coincidence. If you do not commit yourself to the necessary skills of practice, you will find the path elusive. You must be willing to engage in the following:

• Diligent Practice: You must apply yourself with sincerity and consistency, treating your spiritual growth as the most important work of your life.
• Facing Shortcomings: You must have the courage to look directly at your own faults and blind spots, acknowledging where you have strayed from the right path.
• Changing Your Ways: It is not enough to simply see your errors; you must actively change your ways, correcting your behaviour and refining your conduct.
• Constant Reflection: You must remain grounded, reflecting upon your thoughts and actions at every moment, ensuring that your awareness is always sharp and present.

Walking in the Light of Awareness

When you maintain this level of dedication, you will enter a state of clarity. Every step you take will be a step of clear action, guided by wisdom rather than confusion. By doing so, you will rediscover your original, clear heart and finally see your true nature. This is the state of being that every practitioner strives to reach.

Conversely, you must be vigilant against the shadows that cloud the mind. Do not allow yourself to enter dark places, whether they be physical environments or the dark corners of your own consciousness. Do not harbour dark thoughts, for they lead to suffering. Do not engage in dark deeds, for they will only serve to destroy your body and mind, leading you further away from the light of the Buddha.

The Radiance of the True Self

When you successfully clear away the obscurations of the mind, you will find yourself in a state of profound relief and ease. Your body, mind, and spirit will feel entirely unburdened, and the light of clarity will suddenly manifest within you. As this clarity becomes manifest, you will truly see your true self-nature.

This is the true light of the self-nature. When you enter this realm of truth, you will find that you are no longer separate from others. You will be able to save all beings as one, acting with the boundless compassion of the Buddhas. This is the ultimate proof of the path, the true realisation of Buddhahood. This message was recorded by the chief writer, Venerable HaiZe.

Namo Amituofo