..续本文上一页f their poverty is due to annual floods, perhaps we could find ways to dredge the rivers. Only then could they be free from the suffering of their poverty.

　　Similar situations apply to the Dharma. The circumstantial help emphasizes giving (dana) etc., whereas the fundamental help stresses the importance of self effort. Our suffering can be solved by our own efforts. Therefore, a true practitioner of the Dharma will ultimately be free from suffering. If we don”t practise diligently under the guidance of the Buddha but only think of getting protection and help from the Buddha and the Bodhisattvas, we will never get the fundamental help and will be in the cycle of suffering forever.

　　Human beings usually see things superficially and do not see the important part within. Once there was a person who invited a friend to his house. The guest went into his kitchen and saw the chimney leaning towards the eaves. He then showed his concern by telling the host, "The chimney is too close to the eaves, it will catch fire easily. It is better to shape the chimney into a curve." At that time, the host didn”t listen to the guest. Not long after that, the house unfortunately caught fire and part of the property was burned. The host was very sad about the fire but he also appreciated those people who had come to help extinguish the fire. However, he forgot about the guest who had advised him to shape the chimney into a curve. Some Buddhists believe in the Buddha and ask for his help and protection but neglect the fundamental ways of help taught by him and do not practise properly. This is the same as the ignorant host whose house caught on fire.

　　The learning of Dharma emphasises fulfilment of the teachings. It is only when we follow and practise the Dharma that we gain the endowment from the Buddha. Then all our difficulties will be solved perfectly. If one continues to do evil deeds, or is reluctant to follow the teachings of the Buddha, even though the Buddha is compassionately saving and protecting all sentient beings, he will not be able to assist us.

　　When we follow the teachings of the Buddha, we are also accepting his help. Indeed, we are deeply indebted to the kindness of the Buddha. I hope everyone who came to celebrate his birthday today would not forget the beneficence and kindness of the Buddha!

　　[Recorded by Wei ci] (Translated by Chen I-Chen, edited by Ke Rong, proofread by Shi Neng Rong. (21-9-96)

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