Often we hear people say:
“I know it is essential to recite the Buddha-name.
But I would like to study other Dharma ways first.
I will concentrate on nianfo at the end of my life.
Well, at least he has the notion of nianfo.
Unfortunately, he does not know what “end” means.

Eons after eons, we have been whirling and scattering in samsara.
It is time to seek liberation and make this life the last.

Tonight, we remove our shoes and socks,
Not knowing if we will put them on tomorrow,
For today is the last day of life.

When we get in the car going home,
Who can guarantee that we will arrive home safely?
The next moment could be our last.

The world changes every moment, even if we never set foot outside.
Every moment, tens of thousands of people will die.
This moment is their last.

Here and now, it is the end, for every moment is the last.
Where will we be reborn after the last breath?
From whom may we ask for our life back?

Therefore, now is the time to get started,
Recite the Buddha’s name, solely and persistently.

The Buddha tells us: Life is within one breath.
Master Tanluan: Adhere to a mind without a second thought.
Master Shandao: Embrace every recitation, never forsaking.

Do not wait until the end to nianfo,
For there may never come another breath.

Besides, nianfo does not hinder our everyday actions,
So why set conditions on it?

(Translated by the Pure Land School Translation Team;
edited by Kevin Orro (Fozhu))