RIGHT ACTION
Reflecting Upon Bodily 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 bodily
action is to be done with repeated reflection. (MN 61)
When you have done an action with the body, reflect upon that same
bodily action thus: “Has this action I have done with the body led to
the affliction of another?” If, upon reflection, you know that it has,
then tell someone you trust about it and undertake a commitment not to
do it again. If you know it has not, then be content and feel happy
about it. (MN 61)
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While
contemplative practice emphasizes remaining in the present moment, there
is also value in the skillful use of memory. Reflecting upon past
actions is one form of this, when you can review whether you have acted
appropriately or not in the past. When you admit your mistakes, you can
undertake a commitment to act differently in the future. It is a way of
openly acknowledging that you have learned from your mistakes.
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It is healthy
to be truthful with yourself about actions you have done in the past
that may have caused harm. A sure way to get such deeds out of the
shadows and into the light is to share them openly with someone you
trust. It is not that the other person will absolve you in some way, but
by bringing things into the open you unburden yourself. Try admitting a
misdeed to a good friend and see how it makes you feel. It will lighten
the load.
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Tomorrow: Abstaining from Harming Living Beings
One week from today: Reflecting upon Verbal Action
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