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 are doing an action with the body, reflect upon that same
bodily action thus: “Is this action I am doing with the body an
unhealthy bodily action with painful consequences and painful results?”
If, upon reflection, you know that it is, then stop doing it; if you
know that it is not, then continue. (MN 61)
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It is never
superfluous to be consciously aware of what you are doing as you are
doing it. And it is never too late to stop doing something if you become
aware that it is causing harm to yourself or someone else. A mindful
person is also a thoughtful person, carefully attentive to what they are
doing and aware of the effect of their actions on others. Notice how
good things come from doing good deeds and bad from bad.
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Practice being
both a mindful and a thoughtful person. Take note of how you are acting
and how your actions are impacting others. Do not be afraid to suddenly
stop what you are doing if you notice it having harmful effects, and be
flexible enough to change your behavior for the better when you can.
Right action is skillful action, and is measured not only by its outcome
but more importantly by the wisdom that is guiding it.
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Tomorrow: Abstaining from Harming Living Beings
One week from today: Reflecting upon Verbal Action
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