The Struggle for Self-Mastery: Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju
Noon Offering at the Thrice Yearning Ceremony
It is truly painful to find oneself unable to master one's own life, is it not? When your wishes cannot be fulfilled, you feel a profound sense of helplessness. This struggle arises from within your own heart. In such moments, what should you do? My dear children, have you considered a solution? Have you remembered the Buddha? You must chant Namo Amituofo immediately!
The Refuge of Buddha's Power
Since your own strength is insufficient to master your life, you must sincerely invite the power of the Buddha to bless you. Unfortunately, you children often forget the Buddha when you need Him most. You must understand that when you sincerely recite the name of Namo Amituofo, you are not merely speaking words. This practice brings you immense benefits:
- You receive the direct and support of Namo Amituofo.
- You are protected by the protectors who watch over those who walk the right path.
- You gain the compassionate support of all Buddhas and Bodhisattvas.
This is the of the Buddha, a profound and subtle Dharma. You must remember this always.
Calling Upon Your True Nature
What is the purpose of chanting Namo Amituofo? It is not only to call upon the Buddha of the ; it is also a way to call upon the Buddha nature within you. The true nature that every being possesses has been covered by layers of dust. Through the practice of chanting, you remove defilements and attain purity, eventually seeing your true nature. This true nature is the same as the Buddha's, and it is the original heart that Namo Amituofo possesses. When you chant, you are holding the Buddha Jewel, which allows you to connect directly with the Buddha. This is the fastest way to help you transform your mind. It shifts you from the feeling of being unable to master your life into a state of calm acceptance. By continuing to chant and purify your heart, you will allow your Wisdom to manifest. Once you see the truth of reality clearly, you will naturally know how to achieve true mastery.
The Root of Helplessness
The primary reason you cannot master your life is that you have not yet changed your personality traits. When your personality remains unchanged, your naturally manifests accordingly. If negative karma appears, you will inevitably suffer through the cycle of birth, aging, sickness, and death. Therefore, changing your personality is the most fundamental way to improve your situation. However, changing one's personality is not something that can be accomplished in a single day. You know the importance of this change, but how much have you truly changed after all this time? If you reflect on this, you will understand why you have felt unable to master your life for so long.
Aligning with the Buddha's Heart
Let the power of the Buddha help you. Under the protection of Namo Amituofo here at Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, as well as the guidance of your teacher and Practitioner Su, the Buddha's power is available to you at all times. Yet, if you do not change your personality and you do not chant, how much can this help your practice? Furthermore, the reason you cannot master your life is that, even while you are in a sacred place like this, you have not truly placed your faith in the Buddha. Even if you recite the Buddha's name with your mouth, your heart is not in sync with the Buddha's heart. Consequently, you cannot receive the full blessings of the Buddha, and the power of the Buddha-name cannot be fully utilised. This is also the reason why many people fail to reach the Western Pure Land at the time of their passing.
The Path to True Freedom
How can you align your heart with the Buddha's heart? You must stop clinging to your own . Do not think only of yourself or your family members. Every moment you spend dwelling on your own concerns is a moment you are inviting your karma to manifest. Therefore, please trust the Buddha, listen to His teachings, and follow them step by step. Do not listen to your own feelings. Take the time you currently spend dwelling on your emotions and use that time to chant Namo Amituofo instead. In every sound and every phrase of the Buddha-name, the Buddha's power will soothe your heart, and your feelings of helplessness will naturally dissolve. Use your time to chant, to practise diligently, and to serve all beings. This is infinitely better than clinging to your own feelings and wearing a face of sorrow. If you can follow this guidance and improve, you will surely make great progress.
Namo Amituofo
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About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library