This record captures the teachings of Venerable Chang Ren, who offers profound guidance on the necessity of self-transformation and the cultivation of inner awareness. This interview was conducted and documented by the disciple Shi Faxi on February 25, 2020, at the Hsiang Kuang Buddhist Centre.
Venerable Chang Ren speaks:
". The world is in a state of perpetual flux. Causal Conditions shift constantly, and the world manifests in countless different ways at every single moment. In these fleeting instances, one must possess the clarity and awareness to maintain a pure heart, ensuring that one remains undisturbed by the dust of the world and the various distractions that arise. True purity is found in the ability to remain unmoved by external circumstances."
The Constant Flux of the World
"Human habits and temperaments are constantly shifting. Because everyone possesses their own subjective thoughts and , each person undergoes their own unique transformations. People often speak of how quickly someone can 'change their face' or turn against another, and there is truth in this observation. In reality, the human world is defined by change, and all things exist within this state of constant motion. If you can cultivate your awareness, if you can perceive these changes as they happen, and if you are truly willing to wake up and see clearly amidst this movement, only then will you find the opportunity for genuine transformation. Only then can you truly change."
The Power of Inner Clarity
"The power to remain clear-headed rests entirely within yourself. Your awareness is sustained by your own sincerity and perseverance. Every moment that passes is a transformation, and these changes require you to see with a clear and bright mind. You must know how to be awake; only then can you change from within and proceed to achieve spiritual success.
It is not good to be too indulgent with yourself, yet it is equally detrimental to be indifferent to your own growth. You should be the one who understands yourself best. Only when your heart remains closely aligned with your every action and thought can you maintain the necessary vigilance. You must be aware of your thoughts and actions, constantly refining them so that you can find the possibility of a breakthrough."
Breaking the Chains of Habit
"Often, our habits become our greatest obstacles. Because of these ingrained patterns, we ignore the possibilities for change. All spiritual success is only possible after continuous, dedicated change. If you remain stuck in your old habits, you will miss the chance to see your own shortcomings, making it even harder to achieve perfection. When you simply follow your own impulses, you are moving further and further away from that perfection.
Only change can save you, and change requires you to summon your awareness. Practice must be accompanied by perseverance and a heart that is willing to change continuously. As long as you can truly change, any obstacle can be overcome, and you will be able to save yourself!"
Seizing the Opportunity for Deliverance
"The Buddha’s is infinite; He never denies beings an opportunity. It is we who must seize these chances. Everyone should work hard—work hard to help yourself achieve spiritual success, work hard to reclaim your original nature, and work hard to adjust yourself. Only then is your practice not blind, only then can you make daily progress, and only then will your life not be wasted in decadence.
I am deeply grateful for the Buddha’s compassion and the compassion of the grandmother. Namo Amituofo."
