Before Blaming the Outside, We Should Look at Our Own Effort
Just as someone who cannot dance well blames the yard, we easily blame our surroundings and other people first when things do not go our way. But what we should examine first is our own ability, effort, and attitude of mind.
Prayer and practice are the same. If we only look for results without deep faith and steady diligence, then when things are not fulfilled, we end up blaming the Buddha or the practice hall. If we have planted a seed, we must also give it water and fertilizer.
Of course the environment matters too. But if we do not examine whether we have done the preparation and effort we can do, even the same wind cannot become the force that moves the sail.
Today too, before blaming the outside, I hope you first check your mind and effort, and use the given conditions wisely.
Prayer and practice are the same. If we only look for results without deep faith and steady diligence, we may blame the Buddha or the practice hall. The environment matters too, but unless we examine our own preparation and effort, the same wind cannot move the sail.
