“Time amplifies some things and diminishes others; it amplifies the joy and sorrow within the passing years, while diminishing the specific people or things seen in youth.” — Xue Xiaozhan
I have long thought about visiting a temple for a short stay. Finding some free time today, I decided to simply go.
In truth, I have no particular reason or special request. If I must ask for something, it is only for peace of mind.
Time remains constant; the sky within the temple is no different from the sky outside—transparent, pure, and utterly spotless.
Regardless of the temple's size or its sect, that eternally open gate seems to stand apart from the mundane world, separated by vast oceans, mountains, and the changing tides of time. Yet, everything exists within a single thought. It is this very gate that draws the hearts of those in the mortal realm.
The temple in winter feels desolate. Dust thickens upon the pagoda, the merit monuments, and the eaves of the main hall. The lanterns have lost their color, and the trees stand withered. Though the hall is empty of people, there is a lingering presence, as if someone had just departed. Listening to the "Great Compassion Mantra," one's heart feels profoundly emptied, amidst swirling incense smoke and quiet contemplation.
“Can one here, 'make peace with time, and turn the desolation and aging of years into a small flower pinned to one's lapel'? — Xue Xiaozhan”
Perhaps, we truly can make peace with time.
In reality, practicing Buddhism, bowing to Buddha, or showing reverence are merely paths. The essence lies in using these paths to understand and save oneself, to escape suffering and find joy, and ultimately to attain spiritual freedom. This is likely our ultimate pursuit.
We constantly yearn to understand ourselves and to be understood by others, often chasing fame, fortune, and passion. When these desires are amplified, they give rise to loneliness, pain, and torment. The Buddha understands all things in this world. Whatever you think or experience, the Buddha has already known through thousands of years of time, perceiving the inner truth of every soul. Life is but a brief few decades; whether bitter or sweet, all are consequences of karma and part of the process. Since karma and process are inevitable, why struggle so hard to pursue them? By following nature, one will eventually understand, eventually awaken, and eventually let go. When a thought arises, all the mountains and rivers are filled with emotion; when a thought fades, the vast changes of time leave nothing behind.
The sky is clear, with occasional white clouds like blooming lotuses, landing perfectly in the heart.
