The True Meaning of Letting Go

On May 30 2026, I attended a one-day English Chan retreat led by Venerable Guochii.
The retreat included moving meditation, sitting meditation, eating meditation, walking, yoga and dharma talks etc..
 
The most special experience was the outdoor walking meditation.
In the busy center of Taipei, a group of practitioners walked mindfully.
With each step, we practiced being fully present in the moment and maintaining awareness of our breathing.
 
Walking step by step through the noisy, chaotic world, Ven. suddenly boomed: “Who is walking?” This question can have a powerful impact on many practitioners because it challenges our habitual way of thinking and encourages deeper self-inquiry.
 
During the whole process in retreat, Venerable compassionately guided us to understand the true meaning of letting go. Through Ven.’s guidance, we learned how to release our attachments gradually and live more freely in the present moment.
 
I think this practice points toward cultivation of no-self. The practice of no-self begins with letting go of self-centeredness and placing the well-being of others before personal interests. By responding to conditions as they arise, rather than acting from attachment to the ego, we naturally reduce interpersonal conflicts and lighten our psychological burdens.

This reminds me of how Master Sheng Yen faced illness in his later years. He continued teaching the Dharma as usual, entrusting his body to the doctors and his life to the Dharma. This is a profound example of genuine letting go of self. I can see the true essence of no-self from him : no-self means no fear, no worries, no attachments.

As always, Master Sheng Yen’s stories leave a deep impression in my heart. They continue to inspire me on the path of practice, and I will follow his teachings throughout my life.

Written by Meiching L.