The world of Tzu Chi (Vol.110)

But if our angels on Earth unite and are determined to serve humanity, they can surmount any obstacles. Using the Dharma as a lighthouse, they can ferry people from the “sea of suffering” safely to the shore. This ideal situation exists not just in scriptures but also in real life. There are people who walk the Bodhisattva Path by dedicating their time and energy to serving others. We should cherish such karmic affinity and seize the time to nurture our wisdom. The Bodhisattva Path is everlasting. It is a journey which is to be pursued persistently. The best spiritual cultivation site is to be found among the masses because it is the masses that cause one mental afflictions and emotional distress most. If we are committed to theWay, we should not waver but move forward resolutely. Perhaps, sometimes you may ask yourselves, “I sacrifice so much and yet others are not satisfied, so shall I continue doing what I am doing?” or say to yourselves, “Why are there so many obstacles though I am helping others? I am so tired. It is time I stop.” But upon reflection, you do not gain anything from stopping. Without faith in oneself, as time passes, one remains in the same spot without faring any better. It is easy to make vows, but to persevere in one’s commitment is very difficult. If one is not firm in his/her aspiration, one will create stumbling blocks for oneself. Just let the karmic principle of cause and effect run its course to eradicate past bad karma. A step backwards may open up the door to forgiveness, and lead to a broad and smooth path ahead. Moreover, we must make a solemn vow to give our best to serve humanity, not just in this lifetime but also in every lifetime thereafter. The main purposes of spiritual cultivation are to enlighten ourselves, to experience life and to understand life’s truths. Mental afflictions and ignorance create interpersonal frictions which lead to bad karma and many forms of suffering; and ignorance means not understanding the truth or principle of life. As we gain insights into life’s truth, we should then be alert and avoid creating unpleasant or negative rapport with others. The relationship between gentlemen is as plain as water, but the water is pure Dharma water. Since we are firm in our aspiration to serve humanity, we should go all out to help those who are in need; and give of our time, energy and material possessions to help them restore their lives. For those who require medications or medical care, we distribute medications or provide free medical services to relieve them of the pain of illnesses. We should always feel at ease as we give of ourselves to alleviate the trouble of others. When others are free from their suffering and begin to serve with a grateful heart, and we on the other hand, feel a deep sense of spiritual joy from serving selflessly and unconditionally, we develop a positive affinity with others. This provides a basis for our spiritual cultivation. With such pure karmic affinity, we can walk the same path, which is the path of the Bodhisattvas, together. For those who have vowed to walk the Path and have generated bodhicitta , they are our Dharma friends. People who receive aid from others can one day direct their energy and time towards helping others. This is a beautiful way to repay society. We should inspire others to do good, and go all out to help people in distress. Hopefully, our world is filled with loving-kindness and not cries for help. aster’s Teaching * Compiled from a collection of speeches delivered by Master Cheng Yen from March 1 to March 15, 2019. 2019 • 05 02