What Are You Seeking?

The Worldly Pursuit of Desires

People in this world are constantly chasing after various desires. They spend their entire lives in a state of restless pursuit, often asking themselves what they truly want. Is it wealth? Is it the joy of having children? Is it fame, profit, or perhaps a life of luxury and prestige? Many believe that by seeking these things, they can secure their happiness. However, it is important to understand that everything we experience is governed by the laws of karma and cause and effect. If something is already destined to be in your life due to your past actions, you will naturally receive it. If it is not in your destiny, no amount of desperate seeking will bring it to you. Everything is rooted in the intricate web of your fate and the seeds you have planted in the past.

The Path of the Practitioner

As practitioners, we must pause and ask ourselves: what are we truly seeking? A dedicated practitioner often chooses to let go of the worldly attachments that bind others. We do not seek:

• Wealth or material riches
• Fame or social status
• Profit or personal gain
• Sensual pleasures
• The fleeting glory of worldly success

Instead, our focus shifts toward higher goals. We seek to engage in diligent practice, hoping to realise our true nature as an awakened being. We seek to be reborn in the Western Pure Land, to receive the Buddha's blessings, and to make genuine progress on the Buddha's path. We seek to open our eyes to the Truth, to maintain a pure and Goodness-filled heart, and to walk the right path. Ultimately, every effort we make is for the purpose of saving ourselves, saving the world, and helping all suffering beings.

The Universal Principle of Seeking

It is often said that within the Buddha's gate, every sincere request will be answered. However, this does not mean that we can simply ask for anything without cause. For a request to be fulfilled, it must be in accordance with the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way. Furthermore, it requires your own diligent practice and self-effort. If something is already in your destiny, it will come to you without needing to be sought. If it is not, and you still desire it, you must take active steps to change your circumstances:

• You must transform karma through sincere repentance and practice.
• You must accumulate merit and cultivate Goodness.
• You must cultivate both blessings and wisdom.
• You must accumulate the necessary spiritual provisions for your journey.

Everything depends on your own efforts. My dear students, this is a truth you must not forget. Namo Amituofo.