Starting Spiritual Practice
What do I mean by saying happiness is the essential path to becoming an immortal?
English translation draft · Based on the Chinese article. This is not a word-for-word translation approved by Master Shengyuan.
When I say happiness is the essential path to becoming an immortal, I am discussing how, after becoming settled within, we naturally share that good with others. Seeing someone in need, we become willing to approach and give, rather than revolve only around our own disappointments. This happiness is connected with extending consideration to others.
Master Ji Gong often reminds us to be happy. Initially, we may think happiness gives us positive energy and makes things smoother. With longer contact, we gradually understand that freedom and ease also concern our inner condition. Once settled, we see people and events differently, and helping flows more naturally without always seeking an exchange.
Remaining trapped in unhappiness and feeling irritated by people and situations can indeed make caring harder. But I have also said this cannot mean unhappy people never help. It is a reminder to notice our state of mind, not a basis for judging someone’s practice from their unhappiness at one moment.
The work still returns to daily life. When feeling troubled or irritated, be willing to notice and seek adjustments. Where we previously fell short, we can correct ourselves today. Practice does not make every matter perfect forever. It asks whether we are gradually moving in a better direction.