The great path is extremely simple, but the minds of mortals always like complexity. If it is too simple, it would feel dull, dry, and boring. Therefore, one must do everything possible to pursue the complexity of having a “rich content” so the mind that is uncustomed to simplicity can feel a little better. However,we would be away from the “great path” farther and farther.

       Breathing is monotonous, but every breath is fresh and not dull. No one would think about changing it.

       The sunrise is monotonous, but it always makes people feel its power and magnificence.

       The sound of ocean waves is monotonous, but we are fascinated by it, and no one would think of adding a few artificial notes to accompany it.

       The sky is a single color most of the time, but it makes us feel the vastness, the depth, and the richness of it.

       Namo Amitabha Buddha. The same is true for nianfo. It is monotonous but not soulless. On the contrary, it has a deeper and richer content than the sky and the sea because that is the life of our Buddha-nature. Recitation of Buddha’s name is monotonous and simple; the simpler, the better, with no decoration. 

(Translated and edited by the Pure Land School Translation Team)