In May 2012, I came to attend my first Zen class in order to learn meditation and how to control my mind. But was control necessary? My answer was a resounding “YES,” as my unruly mind kept manufacturing mostly negative and painful stories which made me suffer. It had so fed my fear, anger, guilt, greed, frustrations, and doubts that I felt the need to switch it off fast.
As the old saying goes, “as a man thinks in his heart, so is he.” Our mind is so powerful that it can make or break us. Trying to keep it still was not easy either, with its resistance to change. Nevertheless, I persevered. Putting my faith and focus on my Buddha Nature, I fairly overcame its stubbornness.
I have come to appreciate the Abbess’ Dharma talks as she explained the Buddha’s teachings in the most simple and compassionate way, making it easier to understand. The Law of Karma and Causality made me realize my present situation and to take responsibility for all my actions. Now, I am more conscious as I try to perfect my dealings with my fellow men and sentient beings. It opened my mind to the deeper understanding of my real purpose in life.
The lessons on suffering and liberation were an eye-opener. I realized that we are our own enemies as we keep ourselves bound by the preconditions of the material world or our society at large, while in truth we are really free. And we can only call ourselves categorically free if we follow the Enlightened Path, both in theory and most importantly in practice. There is no other way.
As we anchor ourselves on the Buddha’s teachings and take our refuge in the Three Jewels—The Buddha, The Dharma and The Sangha—we must become the Path. As stated in an ancient scripture, “In order to tread the Path, One must become the Path Itself.”
Finally, To the Venerable Wei Chueh, the Abbess, the Masters and all the volunteers, for the heartfelt compassion and sincerest dedication to enlighten all sentient beings and those who come your way—Thank you beyond words.
Amitofo!