In the Infinite Life Sutra, specifically within the chapter on the defiled and evil world of suffering, it is written: Where the Buddha walks, whether in cities, towns, or villages, all are transformed by his influence. The world becomes harmonious and orderly, and the sun and moon shine with clarity. Rain and wind arrive in their proper seasons, and disasters and plagues do not arise. The nation is prosperous, the people are at peace, and the weapons of war are rendered useless. Virtue is honoured, benevolence is encouraged, and the people practise courtesy and humility. There are no thieves or robbers in the land, and no one suffers from injustice. The strong do not bully the weak, and everyone finds their proper place.
This is the state of the world where the Buddha walks. But we must ask ourselves: as the fourfold assembly of disciples, what is the state of the places where we walk? Are we able to help our environment and the surrounding sentient beings receive the benefits of the ? To achieve peace of body, mind, and spirit, to attain freedom of the soul, and to reach are the fundamental aspirations of every practitioner.
The Inner Work of the Practitioner
If you wish to manifest the conditions of the place where the Buddha walks, then it is essential that you engage in the practice of Awakening. This is not a simple task; it is a continuous, rigorous process of transformation. You must engage in purification, constantly cleansing your mind of greed, anger, ignorance, arrogance, and doubt. You must strive for breakthroughs, moving beyond your habitual patterns and limitations to see the truth of your original nature. You must continue to purify and break through again and again, ensuring that your practice remains steady and profound.
These processes must be linked together. You must possess sufficient merit and to have the opportunity to resolve the conflicts with your . Furthermore, you must be able to provide the merit and blessings needed by the beings around you. When they receive this, their hearts will be filled with , allowing them to be comforted, subdued, and eventually transformed into Dharma protectors.
A Sanctuary of Peace in Goombungee
When a locality is fortunate enough to encounter the Buddha’s presence and practitioners who possess true skills, the benefits are immense. The nation can find peace because, through Buddhist education, people come to understand that everyone possesses the true self and has the potential to become a Buddha. When this truth is understood, people naturally cherish all living creatures and value the lives of their fellow citizens. War ceases to arise, and the people can live in stability, no longer dwelling in the fear of conflict.
When the people accept Buddhist education and are nurtured by the True Teachings, they learn to gather their body and mind. They come to understand the laws of and cause and effect, and they realise the importance of changing their personality traits. This allows their true self to take charge, and their body, mind, and spirit find true happiness. Their bodies have a place to belong, and their hearts have a place to rely upon.
The Compassionate Vow of Practitioner Su
Wherever a practitioner resides, it is my hope that they bring , wisdom, happiness, peace, and harmony to the masses. There should be no aura of violence, no anger, and no resentment. By helping beings resolve their difficulties of body, mind, and spirit, and by helping them leave suffering behind, the practitioner is truly saving beings. This allows sentient beings to directly receive the benefits of the practitioner's merit and Dharma.
now truly abides at the Hsiang Kuang Buddhist Centre in Goombungee, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia. This presence brings harmony to the local weather, prevents disasters and plagues, and ensures that the spiritual realms receive , helping people find peace in their bodies and minds. Just as Practitioner Su, in order to reduce the disturbance of demonic crowds upon the human heart, has worked under the blessings of Namo Amituofo to subdue demonic enemies, obtain subtle Dharma, and send those spirits to the Western Land of Dharma Nature.
A Call to Diligent Practice
Although Practitioner Su has endured great suffering from the attacks of demonic crowds, his heart remains constantly fixed in peace and joy, dedicated to saving countless suffering beings. This is the practical vow and action of where the Buddha walks, and it is the magnificent benefit that people receive when they encounter the Buddha living in the world.
I hope that all students of the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre will practise diligently. With Namo Amituofo, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju, and Practitioner Su as your guides, lead the fourfold assembly of disciples forward. Strive toward Awakening and the attainment of Buddhahood, and work to save all spirits from the midst of endless suffering.
