The Cycle of Life and the Path to Awakening

During the first session of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju provided these essential teachings on the nature of youth and the cycle of existence.

The Endless Cycle of Life

When a young bird's wings grow strong, it leaves the nest to forage for food and seek a companion. It then builds a new nest to hatch its own young. In this way, life continues from generation to generation. One might ask: if the bird possesses the Buddha nature, where does it go after death? We must counsel all beings on the suffering of impermanence and being reincarnated. The Buddha nature is eternal, and it is your duty to seek it out and reclaim it.

The Illusion of Growth

Consider the young frog. Before it takes its final form, it is a tadpole, swimming with a large head and a wagging tail, a sight that many find endearing. Yet, in only a few days, it transforms into a frog. It seeks a mate and lays its eggs—precious jewels of life. However, with every step of this growth, it draws ever closer to the end of its life. This is the nature of the physical world.

Returning to Your True Home

As a child grows into an adult, one must be careful not to become entangled in the emotions and attachments of the human world. What, then, should you do? You must study the Buddha's teachings to understand the Buddha nature within you. Engage in diligent practice to become an awakened being as soon as possible. When you are free, you can save other beings without suffering. Finally, you will fulfil your vow to return to your true home—the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. This teaching was recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe.