RIGHT VIEW
Understanding the Noble Truth of the Cessation of Suffering
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And what is the way leading
to the cessation of suffering? It is just this noble eightfold path:
that is, right view, right intention, right speech, right action, right
living, right effort, right mindfulness, right concentration. (MN 9)
One perfects their ethical behavior by abandoning intoxication . . . (DN 2)
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Once again the
importance of ethical behavior is emphasized, as the heart of walking
the path toward the cessation of suffering, and so too is the particular
value of keeping the mind clear and alert. Intoxication leads to a
muddling of the mind, and the negligence that ensues can be the source
of a lot of trouble. Sobriety in its many forms is a skill that can be
learned, developed, strengthened, and ultimately perfected.
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Look at the
many ways your diligence of mind is diminished throughout the day and
becomes negligent. We get distracted by petty things, interrupted by
random circumstances, confused by stray thoughts, or addled by any
number of befuddling substances. The path to awakening winds its way
among these obstacles. See if the image of gradually perfecting your
ethical behavior can be useful in countering this.
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Tomorrow: Cultivating Equanimity
One week from today: Understanding the Noble Truth of Suffering
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