It Is Never Too Late

During the Thrice Yearning Ceremony and the noon offering, we reflect upon the profound urgency of our spiritual journey. Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju offers these words of guidance, recorded by the chief writer, Venerable HaiZe, to remind us that the path to awakening is always open to those who are sincere.

The Preciousness of Your Human Life

Your human life is a rare and precious vessel. As long as you still draw breath, it is never too late to begin your journey toward awakening. You must dedicate your life to the chanting of Namo Amituofo. Let the sound of the Buddha-name rise to the heavens, and pour your entire heart and soul into this practice. When you immerse yourself in every single recitation, you are making a sincere plea to Namo Amituofo, who will surely respond with compassion to lead you to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.

The Unfailing Compassion of Namo Amituofo

It is never too late to seek liberation while you are in this human world. The hand of Namo Amituofo is forever extended, reaching down to guide all suffering beings who have a karmic affinity with Him. He is waiting to help you break free from the cycle of rebirth and enter the Western Pure Land. This is the promise of His infinite compassion, and it is available to you at this very moment.

The Path of Diligent Practice

Everything depends on your diligent practice. If you wish to study the Buddha's teachings and rediscover your true self, it is never too late to begin chanting Namo Amituofo. As you chant, your heart will open, and you will experience the purification of the Six Roots. It is never too late to cultivate compassion; you must make a vow to save not only yourself but also your karmic creditors. This is the time to act, to make the right choices, and to vow to let go of your attachments so that you may journey to the West.

A Call to Action for Every Practitioner

As long as you are still in this body, it is never too late. You have been fortunate enough to encounter the teachings of Namo Amituofo and the guidance of Practitioner Su. Now, you must act with speed and sincerity:

• Repent for your past mistakes and change your ways through the chanting of Namo Amituofo.
• Engage in diligent practice by hearing the Dharma and resolving conflicts with all beings.
• Perform Chao Du with a sincere heart, remaining active and never becoming lazy or complacent.

By making a firm vow to save yourself and all beings, and by dedicating your life to rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, you are walking the only path that truly leads to the end of suffering. This is the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way, which is always open to you.

Namo Amituofo