Returning the Past to Zero

(This image was created by Lay Practitioner Nora)

Teachings from the Teacher; Chief Writer: Venerable HaiZe

June 10, 2023

The Power of a Fresh Start

From the perspective of spiritual practice, you must learn to let go of everything that has come before. From this very moment, you should return your past to zero. Every action you take and every word you speak must be rooted in honesty and a sincere heart. You should understand that performing your duties well is simply what is expected of a practitioner. When you can live in this way, it provides a powerful boost to your practice and helps you progress steadily along the path to awakening.

If you find that your actions have been flawed or that your conduct has fallen short of the ideal, you must be quick to correct yourself. When you receive guidance or reminders from Namo Amituofo or Practitioner Su, you should hold a heart of deep gratitude. Do not delay in changing your ways, for this is the only way to ensure you have the opportunity to make genuine progress. You must cherish these moments of instruction with all your heart.

Embracing Guidance with Gratitude

It is vital that you do not allow your personal feelings or ego to cloud your judgment. If you hold onto your own perceptions or allow dissatisfaction and anger to arise, you will cause great harm to your spiritual growth. You must be vigilant against these internal obstacles, as they are the primary barriers to your liberation.

Spiritual practice is fundamentally different from worldly conduct. Worldly life is governed by the affairs of the world and the expectations of others, where there are subjective standards of good and bad. However, much of what we say and do in the mundane world is merely a manifestation of our karma, rather than the true requirements of spiritual cultivation. You must clearly recognise this distinction.

Transcending Worldly Standards

Once you understand this, you will realise that the teachings and guidance provided by Namo Amituofo and Practitioner Su are incredibly precious. They are specifically tailored to help you face, correct, and resolve the karma that manifests in your life. Such guidance is rare and difficult to encounter; it is a treasure that you should hold in the highest regard.

Namo Amituofo and Practitioner Su both hope that you can focus your attention and gather your spirit. By approaching your practice with the utmost sincerity and diligence, you will not fail in your efforts to cultivate within this Buddha-land.

The Precious Opportunity for Awakening

The grace of the Buddha is vast and profound, and it is truly difficult to repay. Therefore, you must dedicate yourself fully to the path, ensuring that your every thought and action is directed toward the ultimate goal of rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.

Namo Amituofo