The Wisdom of Natural Practice

The Nature of Effort in Practice

Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju offers profound guidance on the nature of our practice. One should not force oneself to practise, as true spiritual growth arises from a heart that is aligned with the truth. When we force our practice, we create internal friction that hinders our progress. However, we must also consider the needs of others. If an action is truly beneficial to all beings, then even if you feel you must force yourself to perform it, it is still far better than doing nothing at all. Even the simple act of forcing your heart to generate a compassionate intention is superior to remaining idle.

The Heart as the Foundation

Everything in your practice depends entirely upon your heart. While effort is sometimes necessary, you must never violate the Precepts. As a practitioner, if you knowingly break the Precepts, you will only increase your karmic burden and create more obstacles for your future. The Buddha’s teachings are essentially heart-teachings. You must examine your own heart and reflect on your starting point. If you are doing something out of a sense of forced obligation, your heart is no longer pure or good. Therefore, it is best to avoid forcing your practice whenever possible.

Following Conditions and Active Practice

When you engage in your daily practice, there are two distinct ways to approach your path. When you act in accordance with the natural flow of circumstances, both you and those around you will feel at ease. This approach acknowledges the laws of karma and cause and effect that govern our lives. Alternatively, when you take the initiative to cultivate goodness and accumulate merit, you create the precious opportunity to achieve liberation from the cycle of birth and death and secure your rebirth in the Western Pure Land.

The Path of the Student

To truly progress, you must dedicate yourself to listen to sutras and hear the Dharma. You must come to the Buddha’s teachings with a humble heart, seeking to learn and understand the truth. We come to the temple to learn, not to teach others. By maintaining this attitude of a sincere student, you will find the path to liberation. Namo Amituofo.