Returning to Zero: The Path of True Awakening

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

29 July 2022

Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju offers these teachings:

My dear children, do you possess the true courage to return everything to zero? To empty your mind of all accumulated burdens and return to a state of nothingness is a profound task. Whether this process is easy or difficult for you depends entirely upon the state of your heart and the strength of your boldness.

The Courage to Begin Anew

Everything in your spiritual journey must begin from zero. Whether you are learning to release your attachments to past family emotions, the pursuit of fame and wealth, or your social status, you must be willing to start over completely. You must learn to let go of what needs to be released, ensuring that you hold onto nothing but the continuous, uninterrupted chanting of the Buddha-name.

The Foundation of Humble Service

Begin with a humble and modest heart. Start by serving the community, by contributing your physical strength, by washing dishes in the kitchen, and by washing, drying, and folding clothes. By starting from these fundamental tasks, you will gradually discover a different version of yourself.

Living in the Eternal Present

Put down the version of yourself that has been stained by the past. Once you have returned to zero, you are free to begin again. Allow your heart to become pure, untethered by the past or the future. Dwell only in the present moment. Namo Amituofo.