The Law of Causality states that actions (causes) lead to specific consequences (effects) under the right conditions. By recognizing our ability to shape our destinies, we should avoid all evils and embrace virtuous deeds. This positive behavior creates favorable conditions for good causes to yield beneficial outcomes. Conversely, negative actions without the necessary conditions will not produce harmful consequences. 

       A common Buddhist practice is to observe and contemplate the mind. Everything is created by the mind, and all are manifestations of our alaya consciousness (the storehouse of consciousness) from past lives.

       I previously introduced a Gatha to you, which reads:

May I always observe my mind,
As afflictions first arise,
When they threaten me or others near,
I shall swiftly cut them off, without fear.

       In practicing the path of Amitabha-recitation, we maintain single-minded focus on "Namo Amitabha Buddha" at all times. Inevitably, we will be distracted by delusive thoughts. When this happens, we calmly observe them and gently redirect our attention back to reciting the Buddha’s name.

       It is often said that illnesses stem from our mental state. While past karma plays a role, maintaining a calm, humble, and soft-hearted demeanor in the present can make a difference. If we approach life with reason, not emotion, with compassion, not anger, and we let go of grievances, dissatisfaction, and complaints, we are likely to enjoy better health.

       For example, most of our audience today consists of women. Women are often susceptible to breast cancer or cervical cancer. These conditions may arise from imbalances in vital energy (qi), often due to long-term emotional stress. When a person harbors pent-up emotions, it can lead to what's known as 'qi reversal,' which can easily result in the onset of disease. If you can maintain a calm mind, avoid dwelling on perceived injustices, let go of resentment and grudges, worry less about small matters, and manage your anger, you're less likely to develop these health issues.

       Additionally, if you have a habit of staying up until the wee hours of the night, you're likely to encounter various health issues. It's crucial to maintain a healthy lifestyle, paying attention to your diet, daily habits, and especially your emotional well-being. Moreover, if you practice filial piety - that is, you show great respect and care for your parents, being considerate of their feelings, and bringing them joy - you will receive abundant blessings. Conversely, those who are disrespectful or disobedient to their parents, often conflicting with or opposing them, may encounter misfortune and are more likely to suffer from various inexplicable health problems.

       Maintaining a positive attitude in life is crucial because our minds shape our reality. Ultimately, the consequences of our thoughts, words, and actions come full circle to impact us.

       Our minds are interconnected with the universe, our thoughts resonating with cosmic energies. Positive thoughts harmonize with positive energies, potentially manifesting as good fortune, while negative thoughts may lead to misfortune. Let’s cultivate a positive mindset, embracing kindness, compassion, consideration, and humility. Be willing to take second place, consider others’ perspective, and be gentle and thoughtful towards others. Be a modest and gentle person, giving credit where it is due and sharing responsibility for the shortcomings of other people.

       Throughout countless lifetimes, we have accumulated immeasurable bad karma. The Buddha said, “To understand the causes, examine present circumstances,” and “Karma persists through eons, manifesting when conditions align.”  Therefore, we should be grateful for all experiences, favorable or not. One might ask, “How can I be grateful to those who wrong me?” In fact, they allow us to repay karmic debts, increase blessings, and practice patience - adorning our spiritual path. Thus, the Buddha considered unreasonable treatment by others our greatest blessing.

       Recognizing that all things are driven by karmic forces, Buddhist practitioners should embrace acceptance, tolerance, and empathy towards one another. We should understand that due to our shared ignorance, we remain trapped in the cycle of rebirth across the six realms. If not for this ignorance, we would have attained liberation long ago.

       Throughout countless lifetimes, all sentient beings have been interconnected as parents, children, spouses, and close relatives. We should view others as our own kin, just as the Buddha compassionately views us all. This mindset embodies the true spirit of Buddhist practice. By adopting this perspective, we can transcend feelings of injustice, dissatisfaction, comparison, jealousy, and hatred in our interactions with others.

       As Buddhist practitioners, we're drawn to the purity of Amitabha's Land of Ultimate Bliss and repelled by the Saha world's impurities. When impure thoughts arise, we shouldn't feel pleased with ourselves or take pride in them. Instead, we should feel remorseful - how can we, as Dharma followers, harbor such thoughts? While acknowledging our shortcomings, we should never doubt Amitabha's compassionate deliverance. As Master Shandao advised, "Constantly repent by reciting the Buddha's name." The fact that we, as imperfect ordinary beings, can receive Amitabha's unconditional salvation should inspire both gratitude and contrition, fostering a gentler, more forgiving heart within us.

(Translated by the Pure Land School Translation Team;
edited by Householder Foxin)