Some individuals seem to have misconceptions about how we receive the blessings
of the Triple Gem and how our prayers function.
Many believe that once we request for blessings and ask gurus to pray for our wellbeing, we can just sit back and relax and our prayers will automatically be answered. Of course, there is nothing wrong with having full faith in the objects of refuge or one’s guru, but such an approach is missing a crucial ingredient for our prayers to be efficacious. For instance, if we set out to drive somewhere, both the driver and the car play indispensable roles in reaching our destination. Similarly, the blessings of the Triple Gem and teachers’ prayers will only be effective when we have devotion and do our part to put wise advice into practice. Thus, we should not simply hope for blessings, but we must also take responsibility for our own actions and do the right things that are required to fulfill our aspirations.