The Worth of My Worries
When we worry, we expend mental and physical energy.
But is this expenditure worthwhile? We usually expect a return of our efforts. If all we gain is worry, then it seems pointless.
As Amitabha-reciters, we are still ordinary beings and will inevitably experience worry and distress. However, our focus should be on genuine significant matters, particularly those related to Amitabha’s salvation, which generates merit. Our worry reflects our sincere care and effort; if we didn’t care, we wouldn’t worry. Amitabha surely sees our dedication and rewards us. Thus, our worries can become a source of merit.
Beyond the work related to Amitabha’s salvation, little else truly deserves our concern. The practice of Amitabha-recitation is noble, as are its practitioners and their concerns. We shouldn’t waste our worry on trivial matters unworthy of our attention.
Anything unrelated to Amitabha’s salvation should not trouble us.
(Translated by the Pure Land School Translation Team;
edited by Householder Fojin)
Guiding Principles
Faith in, and acceptance of, Amitabha’s deliverance
Single-minded recitation of Amitabha’s name
Aspiration to rebirth in Amitabha’s Pure Land
Comprehensive deliverance of all sentient beings