The Wisdom of Cherishing Time

Teachings from Namo Amituofo:

Cherishing time is a fundamental duty for every practitioner. Time is a priceless treasure that cannot be bought back with worldly wealth, no matter how much one possesses. Time flies and cannot be held back; it carries away the many sorrows of the human world while simultaneously bringing the inevitable cycle of aging, sickness, and death. This cycle is the source of the suffering we experience in the six realms of existence. If we truly fear these painful results, we must stop creating the causes that lead to them, thereby avoiding the sorrowful cries that follow the manifestation of evil consequences.

The Fading Echoes of the Past

Where has the glory of the past vanished to today? It has faded into nothingness, leaving behind only wind, sand, and dust. When the body is gone, where does the soul go? It follows its karma into the six realms of rebirth. Although the spirit remains the same, it takes on a new face and a new life, no longer recognising who it once was. This is the reality of our wandering in samsara, a cycle that continues until we awaken to the truth of our own nature.

The Call to Diligent Practice

If you are a practitioner in this life, your duty is to work hard at purifying yourself. Can your true self take charge of your life? That depends entirely on whether you cherish your time. If your past karma appears and your karmic creditors come to seek balance, life becomes very difficult. Some may choose to let time pass slowly to avoid the intensity of this suffering, but this only delays the inevitable. If your true self can take charge, you will cherish every minute and second, ensuring that not a single moment passes in vain.

The Foundation of the Pure Land Path

If you follow the Pure Land path, you should understand clearly that your daily practice is the foundation of your progress. You should engage in:

• Prostrations: Bowing to the Buddha to cultivate humility and respect.
• Chanting: Reciting the name of Namo Amituofo to focus the mind.
• Reciting the Sutras: Studying the teachings to gain wisdom and clarity.

These are your basic daily lessons. They are also a wonderful way to make progress. You must cherish every minute and second; do not let even a fleeting moment pass in vain.

Awakening to the Eternal Light

You must have faith in Namo Amituofo and chant the Buddha-name with a heart that mirrors the Buddha's own. Your vow should be to become a Buddha, and your actions should follow the path of the Buddha. Every single chant of the Buddha-name is precious, as each sound serves to awaken the Buddha nature within you. If your chanting becomes strong and focused, you will enter a state of deep peace and wisdom, eventually reaching awakening and completing the path to Buddhahood. By doing so, you will be able to help countless others who have a connection with you, leading them to enter the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss together, and ultimately fulfilling your wish to reside in the Land of the Golden Lotus.

Namo Amituofo