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 are doing an action with the mind, reflect upon that same
mental action thus: “Does this action I am doing with the mind 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)
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Just as you can
train yourself to be aware of the inbreath and outbreath moment by
moment as you breathe, so also you can learn to be aware of your mind
both taking in information and responding outwardly to events. It is
more difficult, because the mind is subtle, but the principle is the
same. Here we are being asked to take some responsibility for what
unfolds in our mind, steering it toward what is healthy.
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Notice the
texture of thoughts as they arise and pass away in the mind. Be aware of
them as events occurring and fading, rather than focusing on the
content of the thought. The mind is a process and can be carefully
observed. Notice also the quality of this activity, whether it is laced
with ill will or aversion or selfishness, or if it is accompanied by
good will, kindness, and concern for others. Gently guide your mind
toward the good.
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Tomorrow: Abstaining from Misbehaving Among Sensual Pleasures
One week from today: Reflecting upon Social Action
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