Along the path of cultivation, there are many obstacles. As in a race, we all start at the same starting line, but some progress ahead of others, some lag behind, and some are eliminated. Why? Because there are many obstacles. The obstacles may be people or situations. They may be our family and friends or those we have hurt in the past and owe karmic debts to.
Who can overcome all these obstacles and progress in their practice? Those who single-mindedly concentrate on cultivation. In our practice, we recite the Buddha’s name or our selected sutra every day. We also study the teachings every day. If we are very busy with work and family responsibilities, we can at least chant and study for a few minutes. The main thing is to practice and study every day.
As Master Chin Kung says, whenever there is an obstacle, ignore it. Carefully review and observe to make sure that one’s mind and behavior accord with the teachings of the Buddha. Do not spend time and energy on trying to find a way to deal with the obstacle, or else the obstacle will become even greater.
~ Based on Ven. Master Chin Kung's 2003 lecture series on the Amitabha Sutra