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Shr Fu taught simple basic principles that were easy to understand but difficult to practice. To be a good person according to the principles Shr Fu taught was a completely new style of living and thinking and reacting to the surroundings. The meaning and depth of purpose contained in the five precepts were taught in a way that was always fresh and useful as a way to gain self control. Shr Fu taught a whole new life awareness, an appreciation of the methods of cultivation. Shr Fu was the example of the truth he taught and the result of pure practice. Understanding causes and conditions, the purpose of meditation, ceremonies, reciting mantras and sutras, all these practical methods Shr Fu taught over and over so even the most stubborn could come to understand at least a little. The very bad qualities that ruin our lives, Shr Fu taught us, are the material that is transformed into wholesome goodness and better understanding and are cause for us to see how to improve. Shr Fu taught ordinary simple rules that had range and depth.
Shr Fu said “everything is okay,” although anyone who heard knew that within
“everything is okay,” we have to improve. Shr Fu wanted disciples to work hard, but always taught that we should make our own decisions. Shr Fu not only wanted His disciples to be able to make choices on their own but always to try to be in accord with the precepts and principles of Buddhism. Shr Fu gave comfort and safety and peace. But it was also clear that you had to work to improve, to become a better person according to how much you understood the teaching. Shr Fu introduced the practice and meaning of the five precepts and the purpose for trying to change our bad habits and learn how to be more pure. It was easier for young Americans new to the study of Buddhism to listen and gradually accept what Shr Fu taught because he was the example of purity. Shr Fu radiated virtue so it was easier to believe that what he said was true.
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