I happened to come across a website of a Dharma talks given by
Master Husan Hua in 1958 in America, which touched on the
topic of protecting Buddhism. Here are some excerpts from
his speech:
We should realise that it is not only the Bhikshus,
Bhikshunis who are responsible for promoting Buddhism. It
is the responsibility of every Buddhists. If each and everyone
of us can take up the responsibilty, how can we worry that Buddhism
will not thrive? But now, there are some Buddhists who think
Buddhism is not as fashionable as other religions, so they don't
dare to tell anyone they are Buddhists.
In fact, they even agree with others that Buddhism is mere
superstition, isn't that pathetic? For example, there is a
non-Buddhist group at Daofeng Shan in Jiulong( Hong Kong) which
specializes in accepting Buddhist monks and nuns. After they become
adjusted, they forgot their roots and actually slander
Buddhism.
People who truly believe in Buddhism would rather die than
change their faith. We should pluck up our courage, and not let our
resolve waver even if others make fun of us or tempt
us. If every Buddhists remembers that he is a Buddhist,
Buddhism will naturally prosper again. Although other religions may
experience temporary prosperity, the way of Heaven is a cycle, and
when one extreme is reached, things turn around. No one shoud let
their resolve be influenced by superficial signs of prosperity or
decline. The truth is never extinguished, the flourishing of
Buddhism depends on everyone's hard work!