The Awakening of Spiritual Awareness (23)
Being on the path without knowing the Way. Confused and unable to find the route. This is the most common issue for those whose spiritual awareness is just beginning to awaken. They then seek out renowned teachers externally.
If one enters a certain school without resolving doubts, they may seek another school. They are led around in circles by seasoned practitioners who point this way and that, leaving them bewildered. Or they may be confused by profound and mysterious principles, becoming disoriented and unsure of where to start. The more they practice, the more anxious and fearful they become, living in constant suspicion and unease. The loss in their practice leads to confusion; not practicing means not being lost. Yet, the more they practice, the more perplexed they become. Some lose their fundamental humanity and moral principles, indulging in delusions of becoming Buddhas or immortals. They are left stunned by seasoned practitioners’ words. If it were possible to achieve such a state, who throughout history has succeeded? In severe cases, they may unknowingly walk into demonic paths. Immortals descend to the mortal realm; ancient Buddhas and Bodhisattvas return out of compassion. Scenes from past lives seem real but are self-deceived as truth. They encourage others to practice while speaking only of esoteric and difficult-to-understand teachings filled with strange wonders. When someone seeks guidance, they speak of laws beyond laws, destiny’s decree, karmic connections from past lives, obstacles from enemies or relatives, pressures from spirits—words from gods and ghosts fill their discourse. Those who come are left with countless doubts and anxieties; their hearts are unsettled amidst magical illusions that lead them astray.
The Way is inseparable from the heart. One must embody true spirit while on the path; there should be no moment of separation. If one has already understood their own heart’s function, then they are a practitioner walking on the path of awakening. Being on the path yet unaware is the greatest obstacle for those whose spiritual awareness is just beginning to awaken. If one does not realize that their own heart is the Way—purifying one’s heart and understanding it—then one fails to recognize that one’s own heart is the true teacher. They become lost in supernatural powers and responses, enchanted by wondrous illusions within the Dharma realm; dancing along with messages from this realm while believing themselves to be practicing diligently but ultimately fail to see the Way and lose touch with their original heart.
by – Master Liu Hongming