Via Dhamma Wheel | Right Action: Reflecting upon Mental Action

 

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RIGHT ACTION Reflecting Upon Mental Action 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 mental action is to be done with repeated reflection. (MN 61) When you have done an action with the mind, reflect upon that same mental action thus: “Has this action I have done with the mind led to 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)

Reflection We are used to hearing that Buddhist teachings encourage us to stay in the present moment, and this is true of meditation generally. But it is also appropriate to learn from the past, and reflecting on your past actions is one way to do this. Notice that actions include mental actions, so even what you have thought in the past is to be investigated to see if any of it has caused harm to another person. Daily Practice Think back on the quality of your thoughts directed toward other people in the recent past. Have you felt jealousy, ill will, or repressed anger, for example? Have you plotted in some small way to undermine the success of someone, even if you did not put the plan into action? This is intrinsically unhealthy and potentially harmful behavior, and bringing such thoughts to light by confessing them to a friend can be helpful. Tomorrow: Abstaining from Misbehaving Among Sensual Pleasures One week from today: Reflecting upon Social Action Share your thoughts and join the conversation on social media #DhammaWheel Questions? Visit the Dhamma Wheel orientation page.

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