Sometimes the hardships in human life help us develop a sense of weariness toward this world. Then we can let go of our attachment to material desires. […] A question arises in our mind: “Is there a world more beautiful than this one?” Something like that. “Is there a realm that lasts forever?” Then, the Power of the Universe sends us a ray of hope, allowing us to meet a Guide who leads us to those higher and more wonderful worlds. So, sometimes, suffering is also a kind of blessing from Heaven and Earth. […]
Since we’re on this topic, there’s a story by Master Zhuangzi that talks about the suffering in this world. For example, there was this man named Shu – it’s a Chinese name. This man had a hunched back, bent over like a shrimp(-person). […] This hunchbacked man made and mended clothes for people and also did their laundry. You could say he managed to make a living from it. Thanks to doing a few odd jobs on the side, he could even support about ten more people. […]
When I was over there, I actually wanted to stay. At that moment, I really felt like staying for good. Their level of understanding just aligns with mine so well. They asked very intelligent and elevated spiritual questions – not silly ones, not about material things or worldly stuff. I really liked that. […]
My teaching tapes and videos, they were never sold for profit. The costs weren’t even covered, so how could they be called expensive, right? (That’s right.) Not to mention the machines, the staff, the taxes, or the... what’s that word, transportation? (Transportation.) Right, transportation. And the tapes were sold at the same price as blank tapes outside, see? […] She said, “No, no, that’s not what I meant.” […] And she said, “It’s just because I don’t have money.” So I said, “Well, if you don’t have money, then just go take one for free. Tell the staff and they’ll give you one to take home.” I really wish I could give everything away for free, but I can’t – the world has too many people. If I gave everything for free, where would I get more to make new ones, understand?
