RIGHT ACTION
Reflecting Upon Bodily Action
|
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 are doing an action with the body, reflect upon that same
bodily action thus: “Does this action I am doing with the body lead to
both my own affliction and the affliction of another?” If, upon
reflection, you know that it does, then stop doing it; if you know that
it does not, then continue. (MN 61)
|
|
|
|
Mindfulness of
the body involves being fully conscious of your bodily sensations as
they occur in the present moment. Reflecting upon bodily action, as
described here, has to do with being sensitive to the ethical quality of
your actions, which requires tuning in not only to what you are doing
but also to how your current activities affect yourself and others. If
they pass review, then carry on; if not, it is time to alter your
behavior.
|
|
|
Be aware of the
implications of your actions. Notice the patterns of cause and effect
generated by what you do, particularly in regard to whether they are
causing harm or not. If you realize you are doing something that is not
good for you or something that is hurtful to others in some way, simply
stop doing it. It is good to pause in mid-stride from time to time, to
check on the ethical quality of your actions.
|
|
Tomorrow: Abstaining from Harming Living Beings
One week from today: Reflecting upon Verbal Action
Share your thoughts and join the conversation on social media
#DhammaWheel
Questions? Visit the Dhamma Wheel orientation page.
No comments:
Post a Comment