By Miao Yi

During the retreat, the compassionate Holy Master Ziguang Shang Shi explicated the Dharma, illuminated the path, and revealed the road, unveiling us the journey to Nirvana. How to walk this path encompasses countless lessons, requiring each individual to comprehend and experience it personally, constantly adjusting and transforming along the journey.

The path of life and the path of spiritual cultivation are neither smooth nor obstacle-free but are instead rugged and challenging. Along the journey, there are obstacles like narrow and convoluted winding trails that, while may not be difficult to traverse, can be time-consuming. Some obstacles resemble intricate mazes, where one must solve puzzles to find the exit, or risk wandering aimlessly forever. Sections of the path might be fraught with hazards—deep pits where a fall could be fatal, or perilous traps that pose immediate threats to life.

The road is adorned with flowers, yet also marked by cow dung, scattered with thorns, but also blessed with sweet dew. Mastering the art of navigating external circumstances is a crucial lesson on this journey.

Our lives and spiritual cultivation are like completing levels in a video game. Players take on character roles, navigating various challenges and hurdles, with the ultimate aim of reaching the game’s end—whether it’s defeating the final boss, rescuing the princess, or obtaining a hidden treasure. Throughout this process, characters not only conquer foes but also accomplish tasks at each stage, collecting energy, weapons, or treasures. Accumulating enough points allows them to level up and become stronger. However, some players alt at a particular level, unable to progress further due to the obstacles they encounter.

Games serve as a virtual reflection of life, and the world is a simulated environment. Visionaries like Elon Musk understand this notion. Musk famously noted, “There’s a one in billions chance that this is base reality.” From Sakyamuni Buddha’s insights into the world’s illusory nature to Holy Master Ziguang Shang Shi’s revelations about virtual reality, great enlightened masters throughout history have consistently conveyed the same message to those with the karmic affinity to receive it.

In this world, everyone has different choices and goals, but through life’s journey and spiritual practice, can one discover what the true existence is?

At the end of the retreat, Holy Master Ziguang Shang Shi precisely defined and differentiated between the “Path” and the “Road.” The “Path” requires wisdom to choose, while the “Road” is multifaceted, such as mountain paths, water routes, and more, requiring keen vision to navigate. Walking the “Road” needs discernment—distinguishing good from evil, beauty from ugliness, and recognizing whether something is an opportunity or a trap. Ultimately, even the seemingly simple act of walking a road is not easy. Practicing the secret Dharma of Guang Huan Mi Zong is vital for enhancing wisdom. Only with clear vision can one choose the right Path, walk the right Road, and live life with purpose and direction.