Influence is a profound force that shapes the world around us. It manifests in two distinct ways: positive and negative. When you provide a proper, correct, and virtuous example, you become a model for others. This inspires those around you to learn, to grow, and to seek the path of goodness, ultimately benefiting the vast multitude of beings. Conversely, when you manifest inappropriate, incorrect, or harmful behaviours, you create a negative influence. Such actions cause others to distance themselves, discourage them from learning, and inflict suffering upon the collective of sentient beings.
The Infinite Tapestry of Sentient Life
When we speak of beings, we refer to the entirety of existence. This includes those with physical forms and those without; sentient beings capable of emotion and those considered insentient; the inhabitants of the six realms of existence and the four sages; all beings throughout the vastness of empty space and the Milky Way; and the immeasurable and boundless spirits that exist in every corner of every space. There is no place in the universe where beings do not exist. Because we are all interconnected, every action, speech, conversation, piece of writing, and thought we produce carries an influence. If these expressions align with the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way, they exert a positive influence. If they deviate from these standards, they create a negative influence that leads to confusion and suffering.
Walking the Path of Radiance
To be a source of positive influence, one must commit to the path of the Buddha. This involves a dedicated and disciplined approach to one's practice:
Fiercely diligent practice: Maintaining perseverance and a steadfast heart.
Observing the : Adhering to the rules of the temple and the moral code.
Listening to the : Regularly listen to sutras and hear the Dharma, and truly listen to the teachings to change your ways and never repeat past mistakes.
: Remaining alert, avoiding being drowsy or agitated, serving the community with a smile, and maintaining a pure body, mind, and spirit.
Chanting : Achieving meditative concentration through Buddha-recitation, which brings healing to and peace to the mind.
Spiritual Deliverance: Engaging in and spiritual deliverance, which leads to becoming an awakened being, a peaceful rebirth in the , and the ability to save the world.
The Shadows of Neglect and Delusion
Conversely, one must be vigilant against the negative influences that arise from a lack of discipline. These include laziness and indulgence, such as retreating from practice, giving up easily, and lacking the patience to persevere. It includes a disregard for discipline, such as breaking the Precepts, being habitually late, and harbouring a dislike for listening to sutras and hear the Dharma. It also involves mental and emotional turbulence: falling into being drowsy, agitation, arguing, refusing to listen, and engaging in constant discrimination. When one allows greed, anger, ignorance, arrogance, and doubt to cloud the heart, alongside the of wealth, sex, fame, food, and sleep, they fall into spiritual stagnation. Failing to maintain a connection with the Buddha leaves the body and mind impure, leading one further away from the Western Pure Land and back into being reincarnated.
The Sacred Weight of Every Soul
Do not underestimate the significance of your role in this universe. Even the smallest life—an ant, a bird, or even a microscopic bacterium—exerts a unique influence. By observing the lives of others, one may be alerted to the dangers of selfish thoughts and the terrifying nature of being reincarnated. This realisation can spark the desire to leave suffering behind, to rediscover one's true self, and to pursue the Buddha's path. By doing so, one can effectively save all beings and attain a free and peaceful rebirth in the Western Pure Land. Namo Amituofo.
