The Wisdom of Listening to Counsel

The Web of Karmic Conditions

As we gather for the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, we are reminded that every aspect of our existence is deeply intertwined with the laws of karma and cause and effect. Everything you encounter in this world—what you learn, what you see, and what you hear—is inextricably linked to your past actions and the cycle of rebirth. Whether one is born into poverty or wealth, whether one is perceived as intelligent or foolish, or whether one is quick-witted or slow to understand, all these states are manifestations of the karmic conditions and the causes and effects that have been set in motion over countless lifetimes.

The Illusion of Self-Righteousness

Many people fall into the trap of believing that their own perspective is always correct. They cling to their own views, thoughts, and methods, convinced that they are in the right. But we must ask ourselves: is this truly the case? Who is truly right, and who is wrong? Who is suffering, and who is experiencing genuine happiness? In truth, all of these experiences are dominated by karma. We are often not the masters of our own lives, but are instead pushed and pulled by the heavy currents of our past actions. If you continue to live your life in this way, caught in the cycle of birth, aging, sickness, and death, it is a great tragedy indeed. If you are here at Hsiang Kuang: A Sacred Sanctuary and still living with such a narrow, ego-driven perspective, it is a profound waste of this precious opportunity.

The Path to Liberation

When Namo Amituofo, your Teacher, and Practitioner Su offer you counsel, how should you respond? You must learn to let go of your own stubborn opinions and attachments. You must be willing to accept the guidance offered to you, listen to the counsel with an open heart, and most importantly, you must change your ways. It is not enough to simply hear the words; you must take action to truly change your behaviour. The teachings provided by Namo Amituofo, your Teacher, and Practitioner Su are given with one singular purpose: to help you leave the cycle of rebirth behind and to help you break free from being dominated by karma.

Choosing the Right Way

Now, you stand at a crossroads. You must decide whether you will listen to this counsel and transform your thoughts and actions, or whether you will continue to rely on your own limited views and methods. If you choose to turn your mind toward the right path, you will find that your behaviour naturally follows. Through diligent practice, you will be able to assist in your own purification, entering a state of pure goodness and eventually coming to see your true nature. Do not let yourself remain trapped in the ocean of karma, where the cycle of birth, aging, sickness, and death continues without end. Choose instead to follow the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way, and find the liberation that Namo Amituofo offers to all beings.

Namo Amituofo