Q: We continue to have delusions, and fail to see the truth, because the truth hurts.
A: This is why it does take courage to see the truth.
Q: While delusions will hurt eventually, they provide brief moments of joy. Isn’t this what life is about?
A: This is the problem exactly – settling for less, when there is True Happiness that can be attained, that it permanent and without hurt.
Q: We often go through cycles of reaching the tipping point when delusions hurt so much that we see the truth.
A: The problem is that delusions can hurt so much for some that they give up. In other words, delusions do not always lead to truth. One must want to transform delusions to see the truth. Truth does not really hurt a bit. It seems to hurt only as much as we choose to cling to delusion, when we refuse to accept the truth. The truth liberates instead, as we become free from suffering due to delusion.
Q: What I really want to ask for some practical advice – some quick fix to see the truth fast.
A: There are many levels of truth. For the average being, the fastest way to realise the whole truth is to go to the best school, to be guided by the best teachers – in Pure Land.
Q: I have heard countless people saying the way to see the truth is through steadfast practice. But still I do not see practice as the solution, because it will be futile if we fail to experience the unexpected spark of ‘realisation’.
A: It’s the other way round actually. With practice, the spark of realisation will happen. It’s true!
Here is something to share from personal experience.
In my previous job, there is one occasion where I tell my colleague ‘don’t work so hard until you fall sick. Nobody would pity you’.
Guess how does she react?
She says ‘don’t be so sarcastic’.
I reply ‘I’m telling you facts’.
Although we have left the company, I am glad we are still friends as she is able to understand and accept what I say.
I learn from experience that most people feel offended if I speak ‘directly’ but my intention is not to hurt their feelings.
Do you think there is negative karma created because of my speech?
What do you think, Shi’an?
Thank you.
Truth can hurt but please remember what hurts is not necessary Truth.
Hi Irene, Maybe your ex-colleague thought you were being sarcastic by implying she is too diligent, which might make you look bad? Just maybe. I can’t think of why she would see it as sarcastic. If it still bugs you, you should clarify with her.
The Buddha advised this on speaking:
http://thedailyenlightenment.com/enewsletter/2.php (see main article)
Don’t worry – negative karma in speech is created only when there is ill intention. Not only was your intention not ill, it was good. Sometimes, the best of intentions might be seen as ill. What matters is you really didn’t have ill ones.
‘Truth does not really hurt a bit. It seems to hurt only as much as we choose to cling to delusion, when we refuse to accept the truth. The truth liberates instead, as we become free from suffering due to delusion.’
Amituofo