Luang Pu Doo used to teach that recollecting the kindness and grace of our parents can protect and prevent us from being harmed.

Luang Pu Doo used to teach that recollecting the kindness and grace of our parents can protect and prevent us from being harmed. 

Luang Pu mentioned that one of his disciples came to tell him about his experiences working in the provinces of Isaan (Northeastern Thailand near Laos). This fellow wasn't a fan of amulets, so he did not have the habit of wearing an amulet around his neck for protection like many Thais do. But he had an enjoyable time working in Isaan and everything was smooth sailing. 

One morning at a coffee shop, he met a stranger who came up to say hi to him. The stranger then asked him, "What good things [amulets] are you wearing? You must have some very powerful amulets." 

The disciple was confused because he did not wear or use any amulets, and so he told this Isaan local just that. 

The local was equally confused in return, and said that he was hoping to see some good stuff. 

Later, the local admitted that he liked to dabble in wicchaa, occult magic and the dark arts. He liked to test his spells and charms on newcomers just like the disciple, but found that they had no effect on him. So he was certain that Luang Pu's devotee must have been wearing some good stuff. 

The local then asked, "Well, if you don't carry any sacred objects around with you, then what do you do in your daily routine, like chant any mantras or kathas?"

The devotee thought a while and said, "The only thing I do is before I go to sleep, I will recollect the kindness and love of my parents and bow down to the head of my bed." 

If you don't have any Buddha statue or photo, you can bow down in the direction of your pillow at night, to pay respects to the Triple Gems. This is something that Thais do, and I follow this practice when I travel as well. It is always good to bow at least three times before you sleep every night, to pay respects to the Triple Gems, Luang Pu Thuad, Luang Pu Doo and all Maha Bodhisattas throughout the Cosmos. This is because when you recollect a high level Bodhisatta, they will perceive you in their minds instantly.