The True Wish of a Practitioner

A New Year of Spiritual Direction

As we stand at the threshold of a new year, it is natural for us to form new wishes and set new goals. These aspirations serve as a way to clear away the dust that has accumulated within the heart. By establishing clear objectives, we provide our practice with a sense of direction and purpose. These goals represent what we truly seek to achieve in our spiritual journey.

When we successfully realise these wishes, they bring us a sense of encouragement and affirmation. However, as practitioners, we must look deeper. We should not let these affirmations remain merely on the surface; instead, we must transform every bit of encouragement and every milestone of progress into a profound inner strength.

The Unshakable Foundation of the Heart

This inner strength is the foundation of a steadfast heart. It is a power that remains resolute, regardless of the circumstances we encounter in the external world. Whether we are faced with the noise of the world or the shifting environments of our daily lives, this inner power will not be shaken. It acts as an anchor, keeping us steady amidst the currents of samsara.

We must learn to take this cultivated strength and channel it into practical, daily action. It is not enough to simply hold a wish in our minds; we must manifest it through our conduct. By turning our aspirations into consistent, diligent practice, we create the conditions necessary for our wishes to be fulfilled. This is the only way to truly see our goals come to fruition.

The Ultimate Destination of Awakening

Regardless of the specific path or the particular stage of your practice, there is one common aspiration that unites all who study the Buddha's teachings. This shared goal is the rediscovery of our true self and the realisation of our inherent Buddha-nature. This is the heart of our practice and the ultimate destination of our journey.

I encourage all of you to remain grounded and diligent in your daily practice. Walk the path with steady steps, day by day, and never lose sight of this ultimate objective. By maintaining this focus and putting in the necessary effort, you will surely reach the goal of awakening. May you all achieve this realisation soon.

Recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe.