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 have done an action with the body, reflect upon that same
bodily action thus: “Has this action I have done with the body led to
both my own affliction and the affliction of another?” If, upon
reflection, you know that it has, then tell someone you trust about it
and undertake a commitment not to do it again. If you know it has not,
then be content and feel happy about it. (MN 61)
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Here we have a
rare invitation to reflect on the past in a tradition that generally
encourages us to keep our attention focused on the present moment. This
is not an ancient form of psychotherapy but rather the recognition that
reflecting on all our actions of body, speech, and mind in the past,
present, and future can be a valuable learning tool. We refine our
understanding of cause and effect in this way.
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See if you can
get in the habit of looking at what you have done immediately after you
do it. Notice the effect your actions have on your surroundings and
particularly on other people. Notice if you seem to have caused someone
harm or if you have hurt yourself in some way. If you are aware of
causing affliction, be honest in admitting that and undertake a
commitment to refrain from such an action in the future.
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Tomorrow: Abstaining from Harming Living Beings
One week from today: Reflecting upon Verbal Action
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