龍舒增廣淨土文 6.4

6.4

Among scholars, there are some who have not studied deeply yet pass the examinations with high honors, and there are some who have studied deeply yet throughout their lives fail to be recommended. How could this not be because what was planted in previous lives was different, and thus the retributions differ? Even so, suppose one passes the examinations in youth and attains high office, achieving deeds that bring fortunate retribution for a time; such fortune will also come to an end at times. I respectfully exhort younger people: be diligent in your studies and devoted to filial piety and fraternal affection; reflect from afar on your great-grandfathers down to the present—who among them still remains? Direct your mind also to this Path. Days and months are long, and the accumulated merits will be plentiful; over time you will naturally find delight in it. As for those advanced in years, they should consider that past events are all like dreams and illusions; day after day, who can escape [death]? How could one not urgently direct one's mind to this Path? Regardless of old or young, if you can turn around to transform others and have them mutually exhort and transform one another, you will obtain blessings in this present life, and after this life you will certainly attain rebirth in the highest grade.