Via Dhamma Wheel | Right Intention: Cultivating Equanimity

 

RIGHT INTENTION Cultivating Equanimity Whatever you intend, whatever you plan, and whatever you have a tendency toward, that will become the basis on which your mind is established. (SN 12.40) Develop meditation on equanimity, for when you develop meditation on equanimity, all aversion is abandoned. (MN 62)  When a person, thinking a mental object with the mind, is not attached to pleasing mental objects and not repelled by unpleasing mental objects, they have established mindfulness and dwell with an unlimited mind. For a person whose mindfulness is developed and practiced, the mind does not struggle to reach pleasing mental objects, and unpleasing mental objects are not considered repulsive. (SN 35.274)

Reflection Some objects in the world are naturally pleasing, and some are displeasing. This goes for our thoughts and other mental objects as well. Of course it feels good to think about some things and it feels bad to think of others, but whether we experience stress or suffering depends not on these facts but on our response to them. When attached, we struggle, and when we abide in our minds with equanimity, we are at peace. Daily Practice When you are settled for some time in a quiet place, turn your awareness to the thoughts and images that may be streaming through your mind. When you are caught by the content of these, you are swept along by the mental flow, but if you regard what is happening with equanimity, as a process of arising and passing mental objects, your mindfulness is developed and you are no longer favoring some thoughts over others. Tomorrow: Refraining from Frivoulous Speech One week from today: Cultivating Lovingkindness Share your thoughts and join the conversation on social media #DhammaWheel Questions? Visit the Dhamma Wheel orientation page.

Tricycle is a nonprofit and relies on your support to keep its wheels turning. Donate »

© 2022 Tricycle Foundation 89 5th Ave, New York, NY 10003