Pureland Chanting - Om Mani Padme Hum

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你能常誦持這〈六字大明咒〉，就有六道光明能把六道輪迴的黑暗變成光明。 If you are able to constantly recite the Six-Character Great Bright Mantra, there will be six paths of light changing the darkness of the six destinies into brightness. ---------------------------------------------------------------- 第一個是「唵」。你誦這「唵」字的時候，一切鬼神都要合起掌來了，都要這樣子。合起掌幹什麼呢？守規矩啊，要循規蹈矩。你誦這一個字，一切鬼神就都不敢搗亂了，他們都不敢不聽命了。這叫「引申」義，就是引起來以下所說的這個咒，所以凡是說咒的時候，先說這字。 The first character is "nan (Sanskrit: om)". When you recite "nan" once, all ghosts and spirits must place their palms together. Why do they put their palms together? To maintain the rules and regulations. Conforming to the regulations, they follow the correct way. Recite this one character and all ghosts and spirits do not dare rebel and create confusion; they do not dare disobey orders. This has the meaning of leading, i.e. lead to the mantra to be mentioned below. This is the first sound in the mantra. ---------------------------------------------------------------- 「嘛呢」，就是牟尼。這個牟尼是梵語，翻譯過來叫「智寂」，以這個智慧來明白這一切的道理，還要寂滅無生。又有一個翻譯，叫「離垢」，離開這一切的塵垢。這個好像一個如意寶珠似的，最清淨，沒有一切的染汙。這個如意寶珠能生長一切的功德，可以隨心滿願，就有這麼好處。 "Ma ni (Sanskrit: mani)" means "wisdom silence". Using wisdom one is able to understand all principles, and thus is able to be silently extinguished, without production. It is also defined as "separating from filth" which means leaving all dust and filth. It can be compared to the "precious as-you-will pearl" which is extremely pure, with no defilement. Whatever excellence you wish to bring forth, if you have the "precious as-you-will pearl" it can be done. It can also fulfill your wishes in accord with your thoughts. Every vow you make will be fulfilled. These are its benefits. ---------------------------------------------------------------- 「叭彌」，本來那個應該讀叭特彌。翻譯過來是光明圓覺，又翻譯成蓮花開，就是觀世音菩薩的妙心，能以圓滿俱足、無礙，這是叭彌。 "Pa mi (Sanskrit: padme) actually should read "pa t'e mi". It means "light perfectly illuminating", and is also defined as "the opening of the lotus". It is analogous to the wonderful lotus flower, which can complete, perfect, and fulfill, without obstruction. It is the wonderful mind of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva. This is "pa mi". ---------------------------------------------------------------- 「吽」字，是「出生」義，什麼都可以從這個吽字生出來。又是「擁護」義，念這個字那護法善神就來擁護你了；又有這個「消災」義，你有什麼災難，誦這個字就能免了。又有這個「成就」義，你無論求什麼，都可以成就的。 Next comes "hung ( Sanskrit: hum) which means "put forth". Anything at all can be born from this character "hung". It also means "to protect and support". Recite this character and all Dharma protectors and good spirits come to support and protect you. It also means "eradicating disasters". Recite this character and whatever difficulties there are will be eradicated. It also means "success"; whatever you cultivate can be accomplished. ---------------------------------------------------------------- 一念這個〈六字大明咒〉，無量諸佛、無量菩薩、無量護法金剛，都常常擁護你。所以觀音菩薩說完這〈六字大明咒〉之後，就有七億那麼多的佛來擁護圍繞。這個〈六字大明咒〉的力量是不可思議，這種功能也不可思議，這種的感應道交也不可思議，所以這叫密宗。要是詳細說，那是無量無邊的意思，說不完。那麼簡單地今天晚間給大家講一講。 Recite the Six-Character Great Bright Mantra once, and the immeasurable Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and Vajra Dharma protectors constantly support and protect you. Therefore, when Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva finished saying this Six-Character Great Bright Mantra, there were seven million Buddhas who came to support, protect, and surround him. The strength and function of the Six-Character Great Bright Mantra are inconceivable, the intertwining of the response and way unimaginable; therefore it is called the Secret School. If one were to explain in detail, the meanings would be immeasurable and unlimited; they cannot be completely spoken. So tonight I will just make a simple explanation for everyone. ---------------------------------------------------------------- LECTURE GIVEN BY TRIPITAKA MASTER HSUAN HUA, 1971 https://www.drbachinese.org/online_reading/dharma_talks/Six_Syllables/Six_Syllables.htm

Nianfo - Namo Amituofo

The Nianfo (Chinese: 念佛; pinyin: niànfó), alternatively in Japanese as 念仏 (ねんぶつ, nenbutsu), Korean: 염불; RR: yeombul, or in Vietnamese: niệm Phật, is a Buddhist practice central to the East Asian Buddhism. The Chinese term nianfo is a translation of Sanskrit buddhānusmṛti (or "recollection of the Buddha"), which is a classic Buddhist mindfulness (smṛti) practice.[1]

Nianfo focused on the Buddha Amitābha is also the most important practice in Pure Land Buddhism. In the context of East Asian Pure Land practice, the term nianfo typically refers to the oral repetition of the name of Amitābha through the phrase "Homage to Amitabha Buddha" (Ch: 南無阿彌陀佛, Mandarin: Nāmó Āmítuófó, Jp: Namu Amida Butsu; from the Sanskrit: Namo'mitābhāya Buddhāya). It can also refer to that phrase itself, in which case it may also be called the nianfo, or "The Name" (Japanese: myōgō 名号). In most extant Pure Land traditions, faithfully reciting the name of Amitābha is mainly seen as a way to obtain birth in Amitābha's pure land of Sukhāvatī ("Blissful") through the Buddha's "other power". It is felt that reciting the nianfo can negate vast stores of negative karma as well as channel the power of the Buddha's compassionate vow to save all beings. Sukhāvatī is a place of peace and refuge. Once there one can hear the Dharma directly from the Buddha and attain Buddhahood without being distracted by the sufferings of samsara.

Om Tare Tuttare Ture Soha 綠度母 (多羅菩薩) 心咒 Green Tara Mantra

 The Green Tara Mantra, Om Tare Tuttare Ture Soha, is a timeless chant invoking Green Tara’s compassionate energy for protection, healing, and spiritual growth. This mantra is a source of comfort and empowerment, offering relief from challenges, courage to face fears, and guidance toward enlightenment. Chant along to connect with Tara’s blessings and embrace her transformative power.

The Green Tara Mantra is a sacred chant associated with Tara, a revered female bodhisattva in Tibetan Buddhism known for her compassionate and swift action. She is regarded as the mother of all Buddhas and a protector who alleviates suffering, removes obstacles, and provides guidance. Meaning: Om: Representing the body, speech, and mind of Tara, as well as invoking her presence. Tare: Liberation from suffering and mundane challenges. Tuttare: Protection from dangers, both external and internal (such as delusions and fears). Ture: Liberation from ignorance and spiritual hindrances, leading to enlightenment. Soha: A seal of the mantra’s energy, establishing its blessings in the present moment.

Puja: Homage to the Buddha, Dhamma & Sangha

Buddha Vandana ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Iti pi so Bhagavâ-Araham Sammâ-sambuddho. Vijjâ-carana sampanno Sugato Lokavidû Anuttarro Purisa-damma-sârathi Satthâ deva-manussânam Buddho Bhagavâti Translation - Homage to the Buddha Thus indeed, is that Blessed One: He is the Holy One, fully enlightened, endowed with clear vision and virtuous conduct, sublime, the Knower of the worlds, the incomparable leader of men to be tamed, the teacher of gods and men, enlightened and blessed. Dhamma Vandana ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Svâkkhato Bhagavatâ Dhammo Sanditthiko Akâliko Ehi-passiko Opanâyiko Paccattam veditabbo viññuhiti. Translation - Homage to the Teachings The Dhamma of the Blessed One is perfectly expounded; to be seen here and how; not delayed in time; inviting one to come and see; onward leading (to Nibbana); to be known by the wise, each for himself. Sangha Vandana ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Supati-panno Bhagavato sâvaka sangho, Ujupati-panno Bhagavato sâvaka sangho. Ñâya-patipanno Bhagavato sâvaka sangho. Sâmici-patipanno Bhagavato sâvaka sangho Yadidam cattâri purisa yugâni attha-purisa-puggalâ Esa Bhagavato sâvaka sangho. Âhu-neyyo, pâhu-neyyo, Dakkhi-neyyo,añjalikaraniyo, anuttaram puññakkhetam lokassâti

The Meaning of Om Mani Padme Hum - Dalai Lama

Wikipedia

Oṃ maṇi padme hūṃ[1] (Sanskrit: ॐ मणि पद्मे हूँ, IPA: [õːː mɐɳɪ pɐdmeː ɦũː]) is the six-syllabled Sanskrit mantra particularly associated with the four-armed Shadakshari form of Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion. It first appeared in the Mahayana Kāraṇḍavyūhasūtra where it is also referred to as the sadaksara (six syllabled) and the paramahrdaya, or “innermost heart” of Avalokiteshvara.[2] In this text the mantra is seen as the condensed form of all Buddhist teachings.[3]

According to the 14th Dalai Lama

"It is very good to recite the mantra Om mani padme hung, but while you are doing it, you should be thinking on its meaning, for the meaning of the six syllables is great and vast... 

The first, Om [...] symbolizes the practitioner's impure body, speech, and mind; it also symbolizes the pure exalted body, speech, and mind of a Buddha[...]"

"The path of the middle way is indicated by the next four syllables. Mani, meaning jewel, symbolizes the factors of method: (the) altruistic intention to become enlightened, compassion, and love.[...]"

"The two syllables, padme, meaning lotus, symbolize wisdom[...]"

"Purity must be achieved by an indivisible unity of method and wisdom, symbolized by the final syllable hung, which indicates indivisibility[...]"

"Thus the six syllables, om mani padme hung, mean that in dependence on the practice of a path which is an indivisible union of method and wisdom, you can transform your impure body, speech, and mind into the pure exalted body, speech, and mind of a Buddha[...]"

—Tenzin Gyatso, 14th Dalai Lama, 

"On the meaning of: OM MANI PADME HUNG"[33]

Kettle bell Workout - The fix for my chronic neck pain

In 2010, I started living with chronic neck pain. For over a decade, I visited chiropractors, physiotherapists, and doctors, hoping for a permanent fix. The relief was always temporary. Each time I left the chiropractor, I knew I’d be back in a month.

But something changed in November 2022. I started doing kettlebell halo workouts—simple, controlled movements that strengthened my neck and shoulder muscles. Over time, something unexpected happened: my visits to the chiropractor became less frequent. First, it went from once a month to every three months, then six months, and now, I think I’m looking at once a year. For the first time since 2010, I feel in control of my pain.

The point of this isn’t to say kettlebell halos are a magic solution for everyone. But they made me realize something important: when it comes to chronic pain, the solution isn’t just about relying on professionals. It’s about taking an active role in managing it yourself.

Pain Management: The First Step

Doctors, chiropractors, and physiotherapists are great. They know the body and can guide you through flare-ups. But most people use them like crutches—an external fix that only addresses symptoms. You go in, feel better for a bit, then fall back into old habits that caused the pain in the first place.

And here’s something important: don’t hesitate to take painkillers when you need them. Some people think toughing it out is more "manly," but there’s no point in suffering through unnecessary pain. If a simple pill can take the edge off and help you function, take it. Pain management is the first step to getting to the real solution. The key is not stopping there.

The Missing Piece: Muscle Rehab

Chronic pain is rarely just a pain problem. It’s a muscle problem. For me, weak muscles in my neck and upper back were causing my spine to overcompensate, leading to strain and pain. What kettlebell halos did was re-train those muscles to work how they’re supposed to. It wasn’t quick or easy, but it worked.

Here’s the thing: no chiropractor or physiotherapist can follow you around, making sure your muscles stay strong. They can tell you what to do, but at the end of the day, you have to do the work.

The Takeaway

If you’re dealing with chronic neck pain—or any pain, really—don’t make the mistake I did by depending entirely on professionals for relief. They’re important, but they can only do so much. You need to take an active role in your own pain management, and that starts with building strength where your body needs it most.

It’s a long-term investment. It’s not glamorous, but trust me: being pain-free is worth it.

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執著Persistence vs. Immaturity 幼稚

郭富城 Aaron Kwok - 執著

We tend to think of persistence as a positive trait and immaturity as a negative one. But the two can look surprisingly similar on the surface. Both involve a kind of stubbornness, a refusal to give up when others might. So how do we tell them apart? And more importantly, how do we ensure we're being persistent, not immature?

The difference lies in intention and control. Persistence is about long-term thinking. It's the ability to keep going in pursuit of something difficult, despite obstacles. Immaturity, on the other hand, is about short-term thinking. It's the inability to regulate emotions, adapt to reality, or see beyond immediate desires.

You can see how these could get confused. A persistent person might seem as obstinate as an immature one. But the immature person wants something right now, while the persistent person is willing to wait and endure discomfort in the pursuit of something more important.

Emotional Control

Emotional control is the key difference between the two. Persistent people face setbacks all the time, but they don't lose their cool. They recognize that failure is part of the process. The immature person, by contrast, throws a tantrum when things don't go their way. They expect reality to conform to their desires, and when it doesn't, they react emotionally.

If you’ve ever dealt with children, you’ve probably seen this firsthand. A child wants a toy, and when they don't get it, they scream and cry. An adult with emotional control might still want the toy, but they won’t throw a fit if they can’t have it immediately. They’ll wait, save money, or find another way to get it. This difference in emotional regulation defines persistence as a mature trait and immaturity as something to grow out of.

Long-term vs. Short-term

Another way to distinguish persistence from immaturity is to look at time horizons. Persistent people are playing a long game. They understand that big goals take time, so they’re willing to suffer now for something better later. They stick with hard problems because they know the reward is worth the effort.

 

Immature people, on the other hand, want things now. Their inability to wait or plan for the future makes them impatient. They give up if they don’t get immediate results, or they impulsively shift their focus to the next shiny object that promises quick gratification.

This impatience can be disastrous, both personally and professionally. In startups, it leads to pivoting too early, abandoning a good idea before it’s had time to work. In life, it leads to chasing fads, constantly switching jobs, or ending relationships at the first sign of difficulty. Persistent people, by contrast, are willing to wait through tough times because they know the long-term outcome is what matters.

Adaptability

Persistence also gets confused with rigidity. After all, persistent people don’t give up easily, so aren't they just being stubborn? No, because persistence is adaptable. If you’re truly persistent, you’re not blindly sticking with one path; you’re constantly adjusting your approach. You’re trying new things, learning from your failures, and iterating on your ideas. 

Immature people, by contrast, are rigid in their thinking. They often insist on doing things their way, even when it’s clear their approach isn’t working. They might stubbornly repeat the same mistakes, expecting different results. 

A persistent person, in contrast, takes feedback seriously. They don’t see failure as a reason to quit, but as valuable information to use in refining their strategy. That’s why truly persistent people often look flexible. They change their tactics all the time, but they never change their goal.

The Role of Self-Awareness

This adaptability stems from self-awareness, another key difference between persistence and immaturity. Persistent people are self-aware. They know their strengths and weaknesses, and they have the humility to admit when something isn’t working. They seek out feedback and are willing to learn from others. 

Immature people lack this self-awareness. They tend to blame external factors when things go wrong, instead of reflecting on their own behavior. They’ll say, “This didn’t work because of X,” when in reality, it didn’t work because they weren’t adaptable enough to change course.

How to Cultivate Persistence

So, how do you ensure you're persistent and not immature? The answer is emotional control, long-term thinking, adaptability, and self-awareness. 

Emotional control: Learn to regulate your emotions. Recognize that failure is part of the process and that frustration is natural, but not helpful. Don’t let your emotions dictate your actions.

Long-term thinking: Focus on long-term goals. Be willing to endure short-term discomfort for long-term gain. Don’t give up just because results aren’t immediate.

Adaptability: Be willing to change your approach. Learn from your mistakes, and don’t be afraid to try something new. Persistence is not about doing the same thing over and over—it’s about doing whatever it takes to achieve your goal.

Self-awareness: Seek feedback and be honest with yourself about what’s working and what isn’t. The more self-aware you are, the better you’ll be at adjusting your strategy.

The key to persistence is balance. You need to be firm in your commitment to your goals, but flexible in how you achieve them. Stay emotionally regulated, focus on the long-term, adapt when necessary, and constantly reflect on your progress. 

Persistence is what drives success, but it’s more than just stubbornness. It’s thoughtful, strategic, and mature. And it’s the opposite of the impulsive, emotional, and short-sighted behavior that defines immaturity. If you can tell the difference, you’ll know which path you’re on.

我要飲兩杯☕☕

Luggage/Bag Repair in Penang

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The Illusion of Letting Go

We often hear people talk about "letting go." It’s a popular theme in philosophy, self-help, and even day-to-day conversations. The idea is compelling—shed the weight of expectation, relinquish attachment to material things, free yourself from the stress of outcomes. Simple, right?

Not really.

The reality is, letting go is one of the hardest things we can do. And, ironically, the more someone talks about it, the more likely it is they haven’t fully achieved it.

I recently had a conversation with a friend who was discussing his journey toward a simpler, more detached life. He’s been through a lot—serious health problems, the deaths of loved ones, and years of caretaking that drained his energy. As we talked, he repeatedly mentioned how he was now living a life free of expectation and material attachment. He had let go of his possessions, split his money among his family, and embraced a minimalist lifestyle focused on inner peace.

But as the conversation went on, it became clear: he hadn’t really let go. Not fully, at least. He still talked about his responsibilities, his worries about his health, and his expectations for the future—what he might do if he could regain his strength. He philosophized about detachment, but his words betrayed the fact that he was still tied to the outcomes of his life.

This is the tricky part about letting go. It’s easy to talk about, but hard to live. The more we try to detach ourselves, the more we realize how tightly we’re holding on. It’s like quicksand—the harder you struggle, the more stuck you become.

Why is letting go so difficult? Because it’s not just about releasing material things or expectations. It’s about facing our deepest fears and desires. We don’t want to let go because, deep down, we’re afraid of what we’ll lose. Letting go means facing uncertainty, and that’s terrifying. It means accepting that things might not turn out how we want them to—and being okay with that.

The paradox is that true detachment doesn’t come from trying to let go. It comes from acceptance. Letting go isn’t an action you take; it’s a state of mind you cultivate. It’s not about rejecting responsibility or desire but about accepting whatever comes—whether it’s good, bad, or indifferent—and understanding that your peace of mind doesn’t depend on it.

So if you find yourself talking a lot about detachment, simplicity, or letting go, ask yourself: Are you really there yet? Or is your effort to let go just another form of holding on?

Spring cleaning. 
Going to flush over 20,000 old post generated via IFTTT.
Probably everything