RIGHT ACTION
Reflecting Upon Social Action
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However the seed is
planted, in that way the fruit is gathered. Good things come from doing
good deeds, bad things come from doing bad deeds. (SN 11.10) What is the
purpose of a mirror? For the purpose of reflection. So too social
action is to be done with repeated reflection: (MN 61)
One reflects thus: "A person who thinks in hurtful ways is displeasing
and disagreeable to me. If I were to think in hurtful ways, I would be
displeasing and disagreeable to others. Therefore, I will undertake a
commitment to not think in hurtful ways." (MN 15)
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Bodily and
verbal actions have obvious effects on others, but in Buddhist teachings
even what you think can affect the world around you in significant
ways. Every thought plants a seed, and the fruits—both good and bad—can
emerge in unexpected ways to do harm or to bring about benefit. This is
why it is so important to look inward, using the mirror of mindfulness
practice to see and refine the quality of your thoughts and attitudes.
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It is easy to
condemn other people who do not think like us. But we know how it feels
to be condemned by others for thinking the way we do. This antagonistic
cycle can be broken by having enough empathy to look at things from
another’s point of view and to even make a practice of it. Instead of
thinking about how other people should change, try as an exercise
looking for ways you can change. Learn from others how not to be.
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Tomorrow: Abstaining from Intoxication
One week from today: Reflecting upon Bodily Action
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