(Clearwisdom.net) No matter how harsh and unkind other people may appear to be, as long as we did not conduct ourselves well or with a pure heart, we should look inward. It does not matter whether other people cultivated well or not. Even when a child points out our shortcomings, we should look inward. It does not matter whether other people talk with strong attachments to fame and self-interest or not, as long as we are not 100% pure, we should look inward. Looking inward is unconditional, just as cultivation itself.
Of course, when we see others' shortcomings, we should point them out kindly. This is an embodiment of compassion. However, during the process, we should still look inward at ourselves. "Is it because he pointed out my shortcomings, or what he said that I feel that he has attachments?" Or "Is it because I have developed some notions that whatever this person says or as long as this person says it in such a manner, I will not listen, and instead come back to say that he has attachments?" Although this person may not be perfect but what is most important is whether or not we maintain a pure heart. Teacher taught us in Zhuan Falun that "The one who practices gets the gong."
This is only my personal understanding and for you to reference.
2004-6-21
