All Experiences Are Auspicious Circumstances for My Spiritual Journey

There are no inherently bad others, only a lack of goodness within ourselves.

The manifestation of any phenomenon is not inherently real; it is merely the subjective interpretation of that phenomenon by our own minds and bodies. The same event, when viewed by different people, will yield different results because of our differing perceptions and perspectives. It is our varying attitudes towards events that lead to the distinction between good and bad.

When renting out a house, one hopes for a higher price to increase income; when renting a house, one hopes for a lower price to minimize expenses. Although the situation is the same, the perspectives are different. Selfishness and self-interest permeate our lives, as we tend to act solely in our own self-interest, disregarding the feelings of others. However, we often fail to recognize our own shortcomings and instead focus clearly on the flaws of others.

In truth, the real problem lies within ourselves. The image of others in our eyes is actually a reflection of our true selves. It is not others that cause us suffering, but rather our own thoughts. Our greatest enemy in life is ourselves, and our primary task in life is to change ourselves. Only by changing ourselves can we free ourselves from suffering and distress.

Forgiving others is not about letting them off the hook, but about releasing ourselves. Our incessant worries stem from attaching too much importance to the self. When our self-centered needs are not met, worries arise, and these needs only continue to grow. If we can let go of our attachment to phenomena, accepting both good and bad with equanimity, there will be no cause for worry. All worries stem not from external circumstances, but from within ourselves. No one can force worries into our hearts; it is we who create our own suffering by fixating on the mistakes of others and repeatedly harming ourselves. Forgiving others is not about letting them off the hook, but about releasing ourselves.

Do not become someone you yourself do not like.

We often encounter people we do not like. Have we ever considered whether we are likeable to others? We constantly observe the flaws of others and try to change those around us, hoping for better treatment. While we focus on the faults of others, have we ever observed our own shortcomings and considered how we can be better to others? We often give little but expect much in return. Reflecting on our lives, we have spent much of our time trying to change others. In reality, how much can we truly change others? We can hardly change ourselves, let alone others. Instead of focusing on the faults of others, we should examine our own faults. Changing ourselves is more effective; only by improving ourselves can we attract better companions. Like attracts like, and if we feel that those around us are not good, it is time to reassess whether we are as good as we think. Birds of a feather flock together. By improving ourselves, we naturally influence those around us to become better. By focusing on ourselves rather than others, we can achieve greater results.

Do not overlook your own merits.

Perhaps some people complain, “I have done many good deeds, so why hasn’t good fortune come my way?” Have they considered whether, while doing good deeds, they have expected something in return, or have repeatedly boasted about their good deeds, wanting others to remember their kindness? This kind of behavior, doing good deeds but constantly expecting something in return, can make people feel repulsed and will not bring about the desired results.

Sometimes, someone inexplicably targets us. In such cases, we need to reflect on whether, inadvertently, we have done something to upset that person, or have spoken ill of them in front of others. We may have done many good deeds, but because we cannot control our tongues and gossip about our good deeds, we end up squandering our merits. When will we become a vessel that does not leak, letting nothing in or out? When we can do this, our merits will gradually accumulate, and good fortune will naturally come our way.

Learn to be grateful for adverse circumstances.

We often prefer favorable circumstances and dislike adverse ones. However, there is no need to resent adverse circumstances. Adverse circumstances are there to help us grow. Without adversity in the past, how could we have grown? Adverse circumstances prompt us to stop and think; if left unchecked, situations could worsen. Favorable and adverse circumstances are not fixed; a change in perspective can turn adversity into favorability and vice versa. The appearance of an adverse event may seem negative in the short term, but in the long run, it could turn out to be favorable. What seemed unbearable five years ago may not seem so today, given our changed mindset. Therefore, suffering and joy are not fixed; they depend on how we view and think about them.

Accept everything in the present moment.

By accepting everything in the present moment, we can avoid the feeling of suffering. All suffering arises from our lack of acceptance of things. After summarizing and learning from past experiences, we need not dwell on the past. As for the future, we need not worry. By living fully in the present moment, we perfect the past and prepare for the future. If we worry less about gains and losses, life will be peaceful and happy.

Be grateful for all the circumstances in life.

Be grateful for all the circumstances in life, especially adverse ones. Without past adversity, we would not have encountered the conditions that led us to learn about Buddhism, and we would not have achieved the peace of mind we have today. Those who once caused us suffering have become the bodhisattvas who have helped us grow. The suffering we experienced in the past has led to who we are today. I am grateful for all of you; your sacrifices have contributed to my growth. Full of gratitude and compassion, forgiveness and mercy are the most powerful weapons. May everyone be able to cast off their shackles and live a life filled with freedom and happiness.