How can deities and Buddhas become models for cultivation?

Deities and Buddhas can be models in practice. Abstract principles alone sometimes make it difficult to know what to do. A concrete example clarifies what to learn and where to go, making it easier to hold ourselves accountable.

Seeing people joyfully express faith with enthusiastic cries of “Hallelujah,” I wonder why we express ourselves more reservedly. Buddhism and Taoism often discuss leaving suffering. I also hope people learn ease and happiness from Master Ji Gong and Venerable Maitreya, being happy themselves and bringing happiness to others. These observations prompt reflection on cultivation. Daily gratitude, prayer, and morning and evening practice can connect with faith. I am grateful for the deities’ guidance that brought Sheng Zhen Men to today.

When respecting a deity or Buddha, consider how they see things and treat life, and what you can learn. Returning those understandings to life gradually develops wisdom. Cultivation cannot consist only of outward movements without inner change.

Images of Heaven and Earth can also illustrate virtue. Good and bad alike flow into the earth; I use that as an analogy of acceptance. If you respect the Earth Mother or Mother Goddess, learn a broader heart rather than only claiming affinity. Thinking of Heaven protecting people everywhere can prompt wider concern. Respect for deities needs gradual expression in words and conduct.

Respecting a religious elder can return to their teachings rather than judging achievement only by the number of relics. I discussed taking refuge at Dharma Drum Mountain and considered that displaying relics may encourage confidence in practice. The intention is understandable, but worthwhile learning still rests on teaching and conduct rather than competing over extraordinary outward phenomena.