Hello, everyone!
Welcome to this episode of the podcast provided by the Buddhas’ Practice Incorporated of Australia.
Today, we’re going to explore a fundamental question about the essence of our lives: “What kind of person are you?”
The answer to this question isn’t a simple definition of identity. Instead, it is deeply rooted in how we treat others. It guides us to reflect on two distinctly different paths: one of “fearing others’ success” and one of “enabling others’ success.”
1. The Reality and Consequences of “Fearing Others’ Success”
When our hearts harbor the thought of “fearing others’ success,” it’s easy for this hindrance to manifest in our actions. For example, we might worry about others gaining an advantage or becoming successful. The karmic consequences of this mindset are profound and alarming.
Consider the consequences of a seemingly thoughtless phrase, such as “My parents are incompetent.” Such a statement can lead to multiple negative outcomes, causing the speaker to face a similar state of “incompetence” in future lives—unable to have capability even if they desire it. This isn’t some distant retribution; it’s the underlying reason why many people struggle their entire lives, working hard but never understanding why they can’t achieve their goals.
A person who “fears others’ success” often lacks the ability to rejoice in the good fortune of others. They never think about giving to others, helping them achieve something, or offering a word of praise. Over time, they become accustomed to speaking only malicious words and harboring evil thoughts, ultimately harming themselves.
Sadly, many people fail to awaken to this truth and continue to create such negative karma. Even if they have learned or heard these principles, if they don’t put them into practice and continue to “chatter thoughtlessly,” they are “perpetually harming themselves and others.” Karmic retribution is unerring. Just like the strange phenomenon of the California wildfires—some people were unable to escape while others were completely unharmed—everything is connected to the karma we create.
2. The Wisdom and Breakthrough of “Enabling Others’ Success”
The path of “enabling others’ success” is the complete opposite of “fearing others’ success.” This path is full of immeasurable blessings and compassion. What happens to our world when we wish others well? From the shallowest karmic results, like the ten fruits of killing, to the highest levels of compassion, this path brings boundless blessings.
If we can deeply understand and deduce these karmic principles, we will understand why certain things happen to us and will no longer complain. We will know that what we experience today is the result of what we have done in the past. Complaining is useless; it only increases our suffering.
Therefore, we must thoroughly examine ourselves. The topic is, “What kind of person are you?” We should meticulously organize and list all the karmic consequences of both “fearing others’ success” and “enabling others’ success.” The more detailed and comprehensive this list is, the greater our opportunity for a breakthrough. This is a deep act of repentance, allowing us to move from “not knowing what kind of person we are” to “realizing we are not fools” and truly seeing ourselves objectively.
To genuinely achieve the state of “enabling others’ success” is not just a superficial wish. It requires extreme wisdom, which is the perfection of wisdom.
Conclusion
Dear friends, let’s return to our core question: “What kind of person are you?”
Your choice determines your karmic results and shapes your future. Will you continue to struggle in the quagmire of “fearing others’ success,” repeating a cycle of ignorance and complaint? Or will you vow to “enable others’ success” through a thorough self-examination, diligent practice, and the cultivation of wisdom?
Let’s work together to reflect and put what we’ve learned into our daily lives. May everyone walk the path of enlightenment and achieve a life of wisdom. Thank you.
