Enduring Hardships and Overcoming All Difficulties

Every Buddhist practitioner inevitably encounters various trials and tribulations. Resisting karmic forces accumulated over beginningless kalpas is exceedingly difficult; even a Bodhisattva's rebirth faces this reality, as adverse conditions are manifold. Cultivation is like sailing against the current; it requires the courage to battle fierce winds and waves and unwavering perseverance. One must possess the great vows of a Bodhisattva to avoid being overwhelmed by the storms. Summon great courage and fierce resolve! The dawn is just ahead!

As the path rises a foot, the demon rises ten. The very aspiration for spiritual progress inevitably invites tribulation. Yet, the Buddha's power is inconceivable, and so too are one's own resolve for the Way and the heart of diligent, vigorous effort. As long as one generates a long-term, unwavering heart of diligence, Mara has no power over us. Believing this enables one to overcome all difficulties.

Without long-term vision, immediate troubles arise. As long as we broaden our perspective, focusing on the future, the path beneath our feet becomes easier to tread, and the obstacles before us become easier to surmount.