RIGHT ACTION
Reflecting Upon Mental 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 mental
action is to be done with repeated reflection. (MN 61)
When you wish to do an action with the mind, reflect upon that same
mental action thus: "Would this action I wish to do with the mind lead
to the affliction of another?" If, upon reflection, you know that it
would, then do not do it; if you know that it would not, then proceed.
(MN 61)
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It is the
nature of living beings to act. Every moment some sort of action is
called for. Even when we are physically remaining still and silent, the
mind is acting. Even deciding not to act is a mental act. Much
of the time it seems as if our mind is thinking us, rather than we are
thinking our mind. But with heightened awareness it is possible to open
up more space for influencing with our intention the direction our mind
takes.
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This teaching
is inviting us to participate in our mental life with some sort of
awareness and freedom of choice. Notice thoughts arising and passing
away much as you would watch bodily sensations arise and pass away. As
you become more aware of your intentions, examine whether they are
healthy or unhealthy, helpful or unhelpful. See if you can at least
catch up with your mind—and maybe even get a step ahead of it.
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Tomorrow: Abstaining from Misbehaving Among Sensual Pleasures
One week from today: Reflecting upon Social Action
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