Taking the lay bodhisattva precepts has been one of the most profound experiences in my life. As I reflect on this milestone, I am filled with gratitude, humility, and a greater sense of purpose. The decision to take the precepts was not one I made lightly—it came after years of doubting, learning, reflecting, and growing in my understanding of the Mahayana teachings.

Initially, I struggled with doubts about the Bodhisattva Way. At times, it felt overwhelming and almost unrealistic. Why take on the seemingly arduous task of helping sentient beings when I could instead focus on self-liberation? However, as I delved deeper into the teachings, I began to understand the wisdom in shifus’ words, “To benefit others is to benefit oneself.” Gradually, everything fell into place and the next step was to align my life with this understanding.

The atmosphere during those three days remains in my memory: a serene yet awe-inspiring experience that radiated boundless compassion. The collective resolve of the preceptees, the patient guidance of the shifus, and the selfless support of the volunteers created an environment of unity, embodying the spirit of the Bodhisattva Way.

The Dharma talks throughout the ceremony brought waves of realization: At the heart of each precept lies the intention to cultivate all virtues, cut off all evil, and liberate all sentient beings. One story particularly resonated with me—the story of the king who cut off his flesh to save a dove from an eagle. This act of ultimate selflessness struck me deeply, illustrating the immense power of compassion and strength of a bodhisattva vow. It also dispelled the lingering doubts about my capacity to take on this path. While I may not yet possess the courage of that king, the story reminded me that the precepts are not about achieving immediate perfection but about letting go of ego, step by step.

On the day of the transmission ceremony, surrounded by the resonant chanting of the Liturgy Masters and the majestic sounds of the monastic drum and bell, I reflected on the past, present, and the future: to avoid repeating the transgressions of the past; to wholeheartedly uphold the precepts in the present; and to repay the kindness of all buddhas, bodhisattvas, and sentient beings in the future. These reflections propelled me to profess my vows with full conviction in front of the three Celebrant Masters.

I also contemplated the principle of the Precept Body. By committing to follow the precepts, one cultivates a body of virtue that integrates into all aspects of our lives, shaping thoughts, speech, and actions. Upholding the precepts is not a task to check off a list, but a practice that should be embodied in every interaction, every decision, and every moment.

The road ahead will not always be easy, but I am determined to stay on this path with sincerity and perseverance. Taking the lay bodhisattva precepts is not the conclusion of one’s cultivation, but a lifelong and life-after-life commitment—one that plants seeds of enlightenment not only within myself but also in all sentient beings. I am profoundly grateful to Grand Master Weichueh and the fourfold assembly of Chung Tai for the dedication to preserving and spreading the Dharma. Without Chung Tai, I could not have known about the lay bodhisattva precepts, let alone taking them!