How to Revitalize a Dull Complexion
It is often thought that a person with a narrow, uneven brow; eyes that appear weary; an uneven nose; prominent cheekbones; sunken cheeks; and a crooked mouth is considered very unlucky. Any fortune teller encountering such a face might only shake their head, unable to see any breakthrough in the person's destiny. These individuals appear to have weak energy, lacking ancestral support, with a spirit so diminished that even friends seem unreliable. They struggle with motivation, often showing inconsistency in their words and actions.
Many factors can make success difficult, yet some people hold the belief that facial features are inherent. Isn’t our appearance determined by genetics? While the shape of a person’s face may be hereditary, characteristics like the amount of flesh, skin quality, vitality, and spirit are not inherited.
Even if someone displays all the signs associated with decline, as long as their cheeks are smooth and their forehead is bright and well-balanced, misfortune is at bay. If their spirit is strong and filled with calm determination, they can recover from temporary setbacks within a few years. As the famous saying goes, "It’s not the fall that is to be feared, but the failure to rise again." Similarly, in life, it’s not misfortune that is to be feared, but the lack of strength to carry on.
The difference between signs of decline and favorable signs is that favorable signs suggest a smooth fortune over decades, leading to stability and prosperity, while signs of decline indicate that challenges will arise within a year, filled with obstacles. Life is sustained by one's vitality, with determination stemming from both innate and cultivated sources. As long as a person's spirit remains strong, even through numerous challenges, success can ultimately be achieved.
We often see people who lose their resolve before they’ve even started achieving anything. From this observation, I notice another phenomenon: many devout monks and nuns, who are well-practiced and pure in heart, begin with aspirations that seem unattainable. Despite facing numerous difficulties, they ultimately succeed. Why? Their hearts are entirely devoted to their practice, free from unnecessary concerns about failure. Their confidence never waivers, and their determination remains unwavering.
Many people search for ways to achieve success during difficult times. However, I ask, just like the Buddha who attained enlightenment and saints like Confucius who endured numerous hardships on their journeys, did they ever rely on spells, perform rituals, or play instruments to ensure smooth sailing? We, as mere mortals, cannot expect to achieve what they did not.
I often see people online asking what kind of talisman to use for career success. I laugh and say even Zhang Tianshi couldn't simply use a talisman to guarantee success. If a talisman could ensure everything went smoothly, would he have needed to contend with the ten sorcerers of Shu?
Why do practitioners, regardless of their journey, ultimately achieve their goals? In reality, attaining career success is relatively straightforward. Practitioners, through diligent efforts, make daily commitments and set clear, simple goals. Their minds are pure and free of chaotic thoughts. I have noticed that 80% of those who don't succeed usually start thinking about various things before even commencing their tasks. They contemplate how to make things easier, how to maximize benefits once successful, and how to flaunt their achievements or spend their earnings. By the time they finish these chaotic thoughts, nothing has been achieved. Objectively speaking, success comes from having clear goals, a focused mind, and perseverance. Some people naturally possess these qualities, making success easier for them, while others may lack these qualities but can still achieve success through steadfast practice.
Only those who lack both the qualities and the willingness to practice truly cannot succeed. As Guanyin Bodhisattva said, those who do not believe in the Great Compassion Mantra will find themselves powerless.