The Thousand Twists and Turns of the Path

The Persistence of the True Practitioner

When you embark on the journey of practice, your ultimate goal is to realise your true self, reach Awakening, and attain Buddhahood. Even if the path ahead is filled with a thousand twists and turns, and even if it seems that there is no clear way forward, you must remain steadfast. To fulfil your vows, you must continue to move forward, even when the road is winding and difficult. Every step you take with sincerity is a step forward. Though the path may be complex and long, it will eventually come to an end. By persisting, you will surely fulfil your vows, see your true self, and attain Buddhahood, thereby gaining the ability to save infinite suffering beings.

The Infinite Depth of the Vow

Consider the example of Dharmakara Bhikshu when he approached Lokesvararaja Buddha to ask: "I have made these vows, and they surpass those of countless other Buddha lands. Is it possible for me to achieve them?" Lokesvararaja Buddha replied: "Just as one might measure the vast ocean with a small ladle, if one continues for countless eons, one can eventually reach the bottom. If a person has a sincere heart to seek the Way and engages in diligent practice without ceasing, they will certainly reap the fruit. What vow could possibly remain unfulfilled?"

This teaching carries a profound meaning for your practice:

• Even if it takes countless eons to measure the vast ocean, the bottom can still be reached.
• If you possess a sincere heart to seek the Buddha's path, your efforts will not be in vain.
• Through constant and diligent practice, you will inevitably achieve your goals.
• There is no vow that cannot be fulfilled if your determination is unwavering.

Just as the vows of Dharmakara Bhikshu were destined to be fulfilled, so too must you walk the path to rediscover your true self, even if it requires navigating a thousand twists and turns.

A Rare Opportunity in the Western Pure Land

In ancient times, those who sought the Dharma often had to travel vast distances, crossing mountains and rivers, just to meet a teacher and seek the Way. Only through such immense hardship could they find the opportunity for Awakening and Buddhahood. Today, you are fortunate to be at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Goombungee, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia—a place where Namo Amituofo truly abides. You have the rare privilege of encountering Namo Amituofo, your teacher, and Practitioner Su.

Seizing the Moment for Awakening

Because the Buddha is right before your eyes, you do not need to endure the long, arduous journeys of the past. You have the opportunity to seek the Dharma at any time, hearing the Buddha's words and receiving direct guidance. If you can truly "seek the Way with a sincere heart and engage in diligent practice without ceasing," you will certainly attain the fruit of your labour. What vow could you possibly fail to achieve? Therefore, you must cherish this opportunity, which is difficult to encounter in millions of years. You must seek the Way with a sincere heart, practise diligently, and never allow yourself to become lax. Only then will you reach the time of Awakening and seeing your true nature. Namo Amituofo.