[142] Reflections On My Regular Fellowship Attendance
I have been attending PPF (Pureland Practice Fellowship) sessions for more than two years. During this time, the regular sessions gradually became an important part of my life, for the following reasons.
[1] Anchor For My Mind
Daily life can leave the mind busy with constantly thinking and reaching outward. Regular fellowship sessions give me the chance to pause and ‘come back’ to myself. After reciting ‘Āmítuófó’ (阿弥陀佛) together, I usually feel calmer and more collected. The worries and stress of work and daily life may not necessarily disappear, but they become lighter and more manageable.
At times, after praying to Āmítuófó, things also seem to resolve by themselves naturally. Through this practice, I have come to understand that Buddhism encourages us to look within ourselves, rather than always searching outside for answers.
[2] Learning Together Is Much Better Than Learning Alone!
Beyond the stillness fellowship sessions bring, I value the learning and companionship that come from being with everyone. When I study alone, it is easy to become distracted or forget what I learnt. Learning together at PPF helps me learn with more fervour, and to remain firm in my faith.
The experiences and reflections shared by others also strengthen my own practice. Although everyone’s circumstances are different, learning and practising together gives us encouragement to continue on this path. Listening to the Pure Land Dharma inspires me to take refuge for life in Āmítuófó forever, with unshakeable Faith, clear Aspiration, and sincere Practice, till the end of this life, without retrogression.
[3] Everyone Can Become A Buddha
One teaching I find especially meaningful is that every sentient being has the potential to awaken and ultimately become a Buddha. This is a deeply hopeful teaching. No one is permanently defined by their weaknesses, mistakes or shortcomings. We may be at different stages and face different circumstances, but the potential for awakening (Buddha-nature: 佛性) exists within everyone.
[4] Understanding Karma
Another teaching that has influenced me is the law of Karma — our thoughts, words and actions have consequences. To me, karma is not merely about being rewarded for good deeds or punished for bad ones. It reminds me that what I do matters. The intentions behind my thoughts, the words I speak and the actions I take all shape the direction of my life.
Understanding karma has also taught me not to judge others too quickly. We cannot see all the circumstances or causes and conditions behind another person’s life. But what I can control is my own conduct — what I think, say and do in this moment, for the betterment of one and all.
[5] My Transformation
The biggest change I have noticed in myself over these two years, is that I can let go of things more easily. I no longer hold on to small matters as tightly as before. With the Buddha’s name as my pillar of support, I am learning to be more understanding, and to let ‘stuff’ go when it is better to.
[6] Aligning Myself And Walking Together
These teachings learnt gradually shaped the way I experience PPF. It is not just a weekly practice or learning session; it is more or less a second home, where like-minded people walk the same path towards the same destination together.
The more I learn, the more I realise that Buddhism is not only about what we believe. It is also about how we live — how we treat others, respond to difficulties and transform ourselves. Therefore, I will continue attending PPF sessions regularly, so that my heart and mind can remain anchored in the Buddha’s name, as I continue to align towards my Buddha-nature.
南无阿弥陀佛!
Námó Āmítuófó : Damien
25 September 2026
