The world of Tzu Chi April 2020 (Vol.121)

TZU CHI 121 49 REMINDERS UNDER THE SALA TREES good use of it in the present moment. When we deal with matters, we must focus on the present and not dwell on the past; if our thoughts are always stuck in the past, our hearts will be tainted by it. The Buddha said, “We cannot grasp the thought that has passed.” So, “the workings of the mind cease” means that the mind is not tainted by the things of the past. This is a state of tranquillity, stillness and calm radiance. Therefore, the Buddha’s mind is as bright and radiant as the sun. If the sun is not covered by clouds, it can illuminate every corner of the world with its bright light. If a cloud blocks the sun, it will cast a shadow on the earth. Similarly, a mind affected by afflictions is something very frightening, because afflictions cover one’s intrinsic pure and bright nature. So, as Buddhist practitioners, we must learn to have the workings of the mind cease with no obstacles. “The mind is without hindrances, so there is no fear.” Then, we can be free and at ease as we come and go in this world. “[It was] quiet and without a sound.” When the Buddha was about to enter Parinirvana , the people present had two different kinds of mindsets. The first was the mindset of those who could not bear letting go; their hearts were filled with sorrow from separating with a loved one. Those with the other mindset were calm and tranquil. These people had been following the Buddha for many decades, and they had already deeply entered the essence of the Dharma. So, they were very tranquil, calm and quiet as they awaited hearing the Buddha’s weak voice, cherishing this last opportunity to hear him teach the Dharma. The Buddha manifested entering Parinirvana in order to remind us of the impermanence of life. This is an example of teaching through external appearances. In the same way, every time I see patients in the hospital’s emergency room, I experience deep realizations through their tacit teaching of the Dharma. For 49 years, the Buddha taught how to transcend the suffering of birth, ageing, illness and death. However, the true Path is impossible to explain in full through words alone. There are so many principles, but I cannot simply pick them up and show