The Wisdom of a Smiling Face

Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju, recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe, on the 20th of November, 2021.

The Natural Radiance of the Heart

A face that is always smiling is a joy for others to behold. True happiness does not come from external conditions; it arises naturally from within the depths of your heart. When you are filled with the joy of the Dharma, the bliss of the teachings naturally manifests in your daily life. To have no burdens in the heart is our original, natural state. A smiling face comes from within yourself, not from the actions of others. When you offer this warmth to the world, even the beings around you feel their resentments soften and their hearts expand. All encounters in this life are but karmic connections from the past and the present. You must learn to smile and let go of the past. Do not let these memories linger or weigh upon your heart. When a smile blossoms, the knots in your heart are untied. This is a vital aspect of your spiritual practice.

The Wisdom of a Peaceful Countenance

Everyone is naturally drawn to those who are kind, peaceful, and carry a smile. Conversely, people will naturally distance themselves from those who are angry, volatile, or prone to emotional outbursts. You must practise self-reflection constantly. Do not allow a moment of emotional fluctuation or the arising of anger to take hold of you. When you give in to anger, you harm your own heart and damage your virtue. Most importantly, you risk burning down your forest of merit, which you have worked so hard to cultivate. By maintaining a peaceful and smiling face, you protect your practice and ensure that your path remains clear and bright. Let your smile be a reflection of your inner peace, and let that peace be a beacon for all beings who are still lost in the cycle of rebirth.

Namo Amituofo