Starting Spiritual Practice
Why has my life not changed even though I understand many principles?
English translation draft · Based on the Chinese article. This is not a word-for-word translation approved by Master Shengyuan.
Because there is still a gap between understanding something and actually doing it. We know many principles, but when something happens, we think just as we did before and do not change our approach. How could life then produce a different result?
So before rushing to ask why things have not improved, look at what most needs to change now. Have you found a way to address it? Once you found it, did you actually follow through?
Suppose you want a job and ask the deities to help you find a good one. That is a good wish. But you also need to look for information, send out applications, or let friends know you are looking for work. The deities may give you direction and opportunities, but you still have to move forward yourself. You cannot stay at home waiting all the time.
Religious practice also involves real participation, which differs from merely having an intention. If you are willing to attend a religious ceremony, it is because you believe and hope for support from the deities, and you act on that belief. When you have faith and are willing to participate and practice together, you naturally receive greater support and help.
However, if someone cannot attend at that time, we cannot immediately conclude that their sincerity is lacking. We still need to consider each person's circumstances. Some genuinely cannot leave work, and I have arranged for them to recite scriptures while the ceremony was taking place. The main consideration is whether they believe and are willing to take part in an appropriate way, rather than judging only by their physical presence.
The same applies to spiritual practice. Arriving at a spiritual center does not mean the work is automatically done. It is like entering a good school: you still have to study and learn. Sitting in a classroom does not make you know everything.
Change develops little by little. First see the problem clearly, be willing to adjust your thinking, and follow through with action. Only when you actually begin doing something can the principles you learn become a strength of your own, allowing life gradually to change.