The Wisdom of the Present Moment

The Fading Echoes of Yesterday

In the solemn and sacred atmosphere of the first session of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, we are offered a profound reminder: the past has already vanished into the void, never to return. It is a grave mistake to dwell upon the bits and pieces of what has gone by, for these memories are but fleeting shadows. To cling to them is merely to entangle your heart in unnecessary thoughts and attachments. Why allow the echoes of old karma to manifest and trouble your spirit once more? It only causes your body and mind to suffer, recreating the same pain you endured in the beginning. You must learn to release these heavy burdens and let them go, for they no longer serve your path to awakening.

The Priceless Nature of Now

Living in the present moment is the most essential practice for any serious student of the Dharma. The present is truly priceless, yet it passes in a fleeting, imperceptible instant. You must cherish this time, for every moment is a golden opportunity to turn from confusion to clarity. Do not let these precious seconds slip away in vain, lost to the distractions of the mind. By grounding yourself in the now, you open the door to true liberation and peace.

The Unfolding Laws of Karma

Every single action, every bit and piece of your life, is governed by the immutable laws of karma and cause and effect. The causes you create today will surely bear fruit in the future, just as the harvest follows the sowing. Conversely, the results you experience now are simply the ripening of past deeds, which serves to exhaust that old karma. You must understand this cycle clearly and accept it with a calm heart, knowing that each experience is a step toward purification.

Cultivating the Buddha-heart

Remember always to cultivate goodness and avoid evil. The fruits of evil are nothing but suffering, and they only serve to bind you further to the cycle of rebirth. You must be extremely cautious with every thought and intention that arises in your mind. If you can reach a state of no-mind and no-thought, you will cease to create new karma. Maintain a clear and bright understanding of all things, keeping the Buddha-heart and the Buddha-mind firmly in your memory. Follow the Buddha-actions and dedicate yourself to the noble work of saving the world. Namo Amituofo.