CORRECTING OURSELVES IS KEY TO OUR QUEST TO HELP SENTIENT BEINGS
Question: After studying Buddhism in Plain Terms for a certain period of time, some Buddhist practitioners are aware that eliminating a worldly mindset is a critical element in breaking free from the six realms of rebirth. However, in the course of their Buddhism propagation, these Buddhist practitioners have had difficulty interacting with new Buddhist friends or those who have yet to embark on the path of mind cultivation. Hence, they are unable to get along harmoniously with the new Buddhist friends, let alone help them. In this regard, I’d like to seek Master’s guidance on a self-correction approach that these Buddhist practitioners should embrace to enhance their chances in helping more predestined sentient beings.
Answer: The crux of the matter lies in transforming oneself. Who do you think you are? You must learn to let go of your ego. Whenever you are unable to help others to be awakened spiritually, help yourself to be awakened instead! This is what it means by ‘helping oneself in order to help others’.
Failing to help others implies your positive energy is still lacking. You have seen how easy it is for me to promote vegetarianism to others, haven’t you? Why do some people find it so difficult to do the same? The answer lies in your lack of positive energy.
To enhance your positive energy, you should be upright in your dealings with people and matters. This helps to project a strong sense of reliability and positivity, and will give weight to every word you articulate. Only then, people would trust and believe in what you say. On the flip side, if you are someone who speaks frivolously or is careless in your work, who would believe you when you propagate Buddhism?
Question: I see. Thank you, Master.
Source: Master Jun Hong Lu’s World Buddhist Fellowship Meeting (Q&A Session), Sydney, Australia, 10 January 2020
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