The Fleeting Nature of Life: Teachings of Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju

The Silent Erosion of Time

During the first session of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, we are reminded of the profound impermanence that defines our existence. Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju offers us a vital reflection on what it means to let our lives simply slip away. We must ask ourselves: what is it that we are allowing to slip through our fingers?

It is our precious time, our spirit, our physical strength, our energy, the passing years, our deep family affections, and our cherished memories. Once these elements have slipped away, there is no way to recover them in their original form. Even if we attempt to recreate them, they will never be the same as they once were. This is the nature of the world; it is a constant, relentless flow that never returns to its starting point.

Seeing Through the Illusions of the World

The world is filled with false appearances that act as rigorous tests for every practitioner. These circumstances are designed to see if you can truly see through and let go of your attachments. If you can master this, you will pass the test, leading to a significant spiritual elevation and a state of cool, refreshing ease. However, if you cannot, you will inevitably face the same bitter fruits of suffering again.

Often, you will find that the same types of tests appear repeatedly in your life. They will continue to manifest until you have successfully passed them. This repetition is a sign that you have not yet fully recognised the false nature of the world and remain confused or deluded. Before you can reach true clarity, you must first distance yourself from the suffering you experience. All these sensations of suffering do not exist in reality; they only arise because we have feelings and perceptions. Because these perceptions often lead to painful results, you should learn to let go of them entirely.

The Sacred Duty of the Practitioner

Do not let the days of your practice slip away easily. Every single minute and second, new life enters this world, while others experience the inevitable cycle of birth, aging, sickness, and death. Many beings are currently suffering as their karmic connections come to an end. These beings are waiting for practitioners like you to achieve success in your practice.

It is your duty to educate them and help them rediscover their true self. By doing so, you help them find liberation from the cycle of rebirth. Lead them by chanting Namo Amituofo, so that all may fulfil their wish to be reborn in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. This message was recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe. Namo Amituofo.