Rely on the Nembutsu

So often my mind can get muddled. Some days not so much, but often it gets muddled and tells me things that I find annoying or worrisome. So I say the Nembutsu and I feel much better. I say the Nembutsu and know that my thoughts are not me.

My mind likes to run away with things and go in directions that I don't want to go. A mind is something that always wants to be moving. So when I say the Nembutsu it helps me focus on Amida's compassionate vow to save us unenlightened folks and send us to the Pureland where we will become Buddhas and our minds will be brought under control.

Now I just shrug off my mind and accept it for what it is. A mind. Just like I try to accept others for who they are because I don't know their karma and I shouldn't judge another's path. Just as Amida shows an unenlightened being like myself compassion, so I am compelled to do the same to others if I can. So I try, and even if I fail I just say the Nembutsu anyways, as Amida understands us and will take us to his Pureland.

Namo Amitabhaya

Shinjin growing

Lately I find my shinjin or faith in Amida's vow is getting strong. I say the Nembutsu often. It is very helpful to do so. It reminds me of the vow Amida made and how it will lead me to the Pureland where I will become a Buddha. It also helps tame my annoying monkey mind that won't stop chattering. Although my monkey mind makes me realize how unenlightened I truly am and how important it is to rely on and have faith in Amida's vow.

Namo Amida Bu