WAYS TO DEAL WITH DEPRESSION
Master Jun Hong Lu: Here are the following methods to deal with depression: first, you must fervently recite the Heart Sutra; second, you must keep your mind focused. The more you recite the Heart Sutra, the least likely your thoughts will run wild. You must understand the verse that says, “An unobstructed mind is unhindered, and hence, all fears can be overcome”.
The Heart Sutra says we should never have fear or worries. Why? This is because a heart where Bodhisattva resides will have no fears.
Just imagine yourself being diagnosed with cancer. When you have the notion that Guan Yin Bodhisattva will come to your rescue just as She has helped over 10 people around you recover completely from cancer by reciting Guan Yin Bodhisattva’s sutras, would you still be worried? Undoubtedly, you will say, “I’ll surely get well!”
Caller: Yes, that’s right. Now that I have the blessings of Guan Yin Bodhisattva, I feel at peace. However, every now and then, I still fail to control my unruly thoughts.
Master Jun Hong Lu: If you are unable to control your thoughts, it means that Bodhisattva is not deeply rooted in your heart. Otherwise, this would not be the case.
Let me quote you a simple example, do you think my faith in Bodhisattva is more deeply rooted or yours? You would not be able to fathom the amount of obstacles and difficulties that I have encountered. But, I have always had such strong faith in Guan Yin Bodhisattva. With that, what fear could I possibly have?
As for you, you may believe in Guan Yin Bodhisattva but when trouble crops up, you will start to question, “Would Bodhisattva come and save me? Guan Yin Bodhisattva! Would I get well after reciting these Buddhist scriptures?”
When a problem arises, I will tell myself, “There’s nothing that can’t be sorted out because there is no way that Bodhisattva will forsake me”. Only with such unwavering faith would you be able to overcome all worldly troubles and challenges.
Caller: I see. Thank you, Master.
Source: Wenda20130714A 14:17, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program