Diligence Leads to True Attainment

Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju, recorded by Venerable HaiZe.

September 4, 2022.

The Seeds of Diligence and the Fruits of Attainment

Diligence leads to true attainment. This phrase is profound. The word attainment here refers to both the merit and virtue we accumulate, as well as the actual skills and depth of our cultivation. In our modern world, people often lack the spirit of true diligence and perseverance. This is a common challenge even for those who are walking the path of practice.

We live in an environment that prioritises speed and efficiency above all else. Because of this, many people have forgotten that it is only through a steady, down-to-earth approach that one can develop true cultivation skills. Everything that is genuine must grow and manifest naturally; it cannot be forced or rushed.

The Quiet Path Beyond the Rush of the World

If you wish to achieve success in your practice, you must be more diligent, more hardworking, and more focused than others. Only through this level of dedication can you truly make progress. However, what happens when you have achieved this level of skill? When you have reached a point where your practice can benefit the masses, serve the community, and even help save the wisdom-life of other beings, you must remember the principle of non-abiding.

The Boundless Ocean of Shared Merit

If you can perform these acts of service without any attachment to the self, then your actions become true merit and virtue. If you can then dedicate this merit to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss, and share it universally with all beings, the magnitude of this merit becomes immeasurable.

Walking the Way with a Pure and Unattached Heart

Conversely, if there is even a tiny trace of selfishness or desire for personal gain, that merit is transformed into mere worldly blessings. This is why it is so important to simply keep moving forward with a pure, selfless heart. Do not let the ego interfere with your work. Just continue to chant Namo Amituofo with a mind that is free from attachment.

Namo Amituofo