Whatever the situation,

adverse or favorable, normal or unusual,

remain balanced in your Buddha-name recitation,

unwavering and unshakeable.

The mind that is moved from its clear, natural state is a distracted, agitated mind. It is a mind that leans first in one direction and then another, threatening to lose its stability. What we aim for in our practice is to be firm and strong.

When others praise us, we do not get caught up in fame or pride.

When others criticize us, we do not become angry or argue.

When things go as planned, we do not become arrogant.

When we encounter situations not planned for, we do not worry or become fearful.

How can we attain such stability? Every time we perceive a distraction—good or bad—we return to the Buddha-name. This is our practice. The more we practice, the better we get whether we’re participating in a sport or playing an instrument. Or chanting the Buddha’s name.