"True
renunciation is renunciation in the heart. For one can also convey
the gospel of "liberation in one lifetime" to people around
the world, to those who are suffering, so that they can achieve
self-realization. Whether we become monastic practitioners or remain
lay spiritual practitioners, whatever work we do, or even if we
work in a factory, we can still convey the message of the Truth
among our colleagues. Look at my clothes; they don't look like monastic
robes. As long as your hearts are not attached, you don't look like
lay people either.
Therefore,
it doesn't matter whether you take a monastic vow or not! The main
point is that you're able to progress in your spiritual practice,
are happy and free in both body and soul, and also are able to help
others enjoy this bliss. That's our goal. Our goal is not to join
the monastic order, but to bring happiness to others. That's how
we should be, no matter where we are or what the situation is.
I
don't mean that it's no good for you to become a renunciate. This
ideal is good and noble, and I approve of it. It's just that the
situation is not viable for some people. Even if you haven't shaved
your heads and you wear layman's clothes, but your hearts are unoccupied
and free, then that's true liberation. We should not be attached
to outer appearances."
From "Don't Be Attached to Renunciation"
News 140, Pearls of Wisdom
Spoken by Supreme Master Ching Hai
International six-day Retreat in Bangkok, Thailand •
December 27, 1999
(originally in Chinese) Videotape No. 682
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