What does it mean to follow the rules? What does it mean to be respectful (observe boundaries)? What types of rules should we follow? What types of boundaries should we observe? To follow the rules means to apply the Buddha conducts. To observe all boundaries means to act accordingly to one’s position and not attempt to go beyond your position. When you are able to hold your position and truthfully cultivate, this is what is meant by, Be Respectful and Follow the Rules. 

So why is there the need to establish Buddha conducts? After we have received the Tao, what are we supposed to do? The goal is to become immortals, saints, sages, or Buddha. If you don’t follow the rules, are you able to become immortals, saints and sages, or Buddha? The basic requirement for “being respectful and following the rules” is to act in accordance with one’s position. The rules of Buddha Conducts are well established, but if you do not apply them, how can you achieve sainthood or Buddhahood? Regardless of what rules Dian Chuan Shi established, as long as the rules are according to the principles, everyone should comply and follow them. This is what it means by: Be Respectful and Follow the Rules.

One should understand that “Be Respectful and Follow the Rules” is not limited to written rules. One should constantly ask oneself: “Have I been following the Buddha conducts of the True Self”? There is a temple within you. What does that mean? Well, the original nature of the human being is wholesome. Every one of us has this consciousness. You have to ask yourself, in dealing with worldly issues “Have I been following my True Self?” “Have I applied the Buddha Conducts of the True Self?” “Was I sincere in how I treated others?” “Was I compassionate towards others?” Your consciousness is the rules of the Buddha! In cultivation, one should not solely present the outer image, but also focus on the manifestation of the inner Buddha. 

It is necessary to follow the rules of the Buddha Conducts that are written down, but you must also pay careful attention to the Buddha Conducts within. Constantly clean the light within and not let it be contaminated and do not go against your consciousness. This is the true meaning of “Be Respectful and Follow the Rules”.