The world is going through changes every day: people are changing, things are changing, the times are changing, and
even the very air we breathe is changing. Basically, this is not an appropriate time of year for rain, yet we are having rain. We are also having a cold spell. The weather is quite irregular right now. These changes are the result of some special conditions. For example, volcanoes erupt because the heat from inside the earth has been pumped to a particular spot, and after that heat has been pent-up for a long enough period of time, there's no other way to vent it, so the volcano erupts, releasing all that steam. Tidal waves occur when the water has to be emptied out. Earthquakes, tidal waves and the like signify changes of the times.

The four seasons have definite patterns natural to specific regions. If the weather patterns begin to show signs of abnormality, it's an omen that certain things are about to happen. Aberrations in the natural ways of people manifest as insanity.

And now that we are witnessing changes in the normal weather pattern, it's a sign that heaven and earth are becoming unbalanced. These are not good omens. During these times of manifold changes and catastrophes, we cultivators should certainly put forth our best efforts. If we practice diligently and well, then we can transform violent energy into something auspicious-we can turn disasters into peaceful situations. Otherwise, as the weather goes through changes, so too will people's minds, causing them to develop psychological abnormalities. Once people go insane, problems arise. Confronted with such inauspicious occurrences, we should now bring forth our greatest effort in cultivation.
If we specialize in reciting the Buddha's name, then we should increase our recitation; if we hold mantras, we should recite them more; if we recite Sutras, we should recite more Sutras. Moreover, if it's within our capacity, we should try to do more good deeds. As it's said, if the virtue is good enough, even resentful karma can be dispelled. During these unusual times we should accord with conditions. What's most important is that people not get angry. When you get angry and have a temper, that's also "changing." It's said that "when things reach their extreme point, a change comes about, and with change comes penetration."

So when things reach their extreme, when things get as bad as they can get, a change occurs. Then after the transformation, one can penetrate without obstruction. In the beginning one is unable to make the connections, but eventually all things reach their limit and once that happens, a transformation occurs and with it comes penetration. This principle applies to people as well. For example, we may develop a boil on our bodies. Before the boil breaks open, a lot of fluid accumulates inside. As this builds, the boil becomes extremely painful. Once the boil breaks apart and the pus flows out, it very naturally heals.

If people want to break free of birth and death while in the midst of birth and death, it won't be an easy thing for them to do. It's absolutely certain they'll have to expend a certain amount of effort in order to do so. What does it mean to put out your greatest effort and use your strength? It means that in everything you do, do it the truest way you know how. And so, when faced with adversity, when everything is going against you, remain steadfast. Do not make a mistake or retreat. That's how you "Nurture the mind ground and nourish your nature which is heaven-true."