RIGHT ACTION
Reflecting Upon Verbal 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 verbal
action is to be done with repeated reflection. (MN 61)
When you are doing an action with speech, reflect upon that same verbal
action thus: “Is this action I am doing with speech 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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Speech is a
form of action, and all actions have their consequences. Using
mindfulness as a kind of mirror, pay attention to the effect your verbal
actions have on those you speak to, as well as the effect they have on
your own mental and emotional states. If you detect that people are
being harmed by what you say, or if you notice your own mood turning
toward the unhelpful spectrum, then stop saying what you are saying.
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A careful
speaker is consciously aware of what they are saying while they are
speaking and also takes notice of how their words are affecting others.
Practice speaking carefully. It takes some extra effort to both compose
your words and reflect upon them, as with a mirror, but it is worthwhile
effort. Words are like seeds, and as the discourse reminds us, “However
the seed is planted, in that way the fruit is gathered.”
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Tomorrow: Abstaining from Taking What is Not Given
One week from today: Reflecting upon Mental Action
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