Actual Practice Is More Difficult Than Merely Studying Theory

In the internet age, with the explosion of theory, learning knowledge has become very easy—there is hardly any difficulty to it anymore. The difficulty lies precisely in the area of actual practice. First, there are not many examples or experiences of actual practice to draw upon; second, there is no one who has genuinely practiced and realized the truth to provide guidance; third, one must break through layer upon layer of obstacles and do it personally—no one can do it in your place; fourth, sentient beings' spiritual faculties (indriya) are generally not very good, and the hurdle of karmic obstructions is hard to pass, making it impossible to get started and put cultivation into practice.

Here, we focus primarily on actual practice, not on preliminary theoretical knowledge. We do not engage in mere verbal gymnastics, nor do we go around debating to win arguments. Once you enter the stage of actual practice and have the foundation and know-how of real practice, even if you do not attain any realization in this life, it will not be easy for you to fall into the three evil destinies. When you encounter the Buddha's teachings again in future lives, you will automatically enter the state of actual practice, and your cultivation will progress quickly. I hope everyone will cherish this opportunity and affinity, stop chasing after worldly and unbeneficial matters, and even more so, stop pursuing worldly pleasures—there is nothing truly enjoyable in this world. I hope everyone will be more attentive and increase the content of wisdom in your cognition.