Look at the Good and Rejoice

The Practice of Seeing Goodness

This teaching was recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe, during the third session of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony held on 24 July 2022. Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju offers us this profound guidance: Look at the good and rejoice. When you choose to focus on the goodness in all things, you naturally cultivate a heart free from anger. If there is no anger within you, the fires of rage have no fuel to ignite. This is truly a wonderful way to live.

Wisdom and Mind-Capacity

To look at the good is the hallmark of a wise person—one who possesses a vast mind-capacity. When you can see the positive in every situation, you are not merely reacting to the world; you are transforming it. This practice is the fundamental solution to preventing the arising of anger when you encounter things that seem bad or unpleasant.

Cultivating the Fruit of Bodhi

As the teaching states, we must give rise to all roots of goodness and achieve the fruit of Bodhi. By consistently looking for the good, you are actively planting seeds of virtue. This is how you nurture your spiritual growth and eventually attain the ultimate fruit of Enlightenment.

The Mechanics of Karma

We must be vigilant. If a negative thought has already arisen, or if harsh words have already been spoken, you must immediately recognise that this is not the right path. To realise that your thoughts are unwholesome and then to turn them around is a sign that you are beginning to awaken. However, be aware that once a thought arises, it creates a ripple in your consciousness. Once that consciousness manifests, it has already created karma. Nevertheless, it is always better to recognise your mistake and turn your mind around than to remain ignorant and continue to create karma.

A Life of Constant Joy

Look at the good and rejoice. I wish for all of you to look at the good in every moment and in every event. May your Six Roots perceive only goodness, and may your heart be filled with joy at all times. Namo Amituofo.