Beyond Facing Others

Yutang Lin

Pray to Buddhas without self-imposed distance
As if facing someone beyond reach;
Original purity has never been confined;
Remain harmonious in Oneness inseparable.

Comment:

While praying, reciting praises, or saluting to Buddhas and Bodhisattvas do not become limited by one's own concept of "facing the other party" to feel distant from them. One should understand that Buddhas and Bodhisattvas have already transcended the confine of a "self," and remain in the Oneness that encompasses all sentient beings. In order to achieve inspirational communion with such holy beings one simply needs to expand one's mind to the limitless state of being constantly mindful of all sentient beings. In daily life one's speech and activities should also be oriented toward ways that are beyond antagonism. When opposite attitude is adopted, there will be entanglements drawing all involved into the maze of endless suffering. It is not difficult to go beyond a "facing others" position. Simply refrain from haggling, criticizing and expecting, and devote all energy toward practicing the Dharma and propagating the Dharma as an equal-opportunity service to all beings.

Written in Chinese on March 24, 2000
Translated on March 25, 2000
El Cerrito, California

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