Via Dhamma Wheel | Right Speech: Refraining from Frivolous Speech

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RIGHT SPEECH Refraining from Frivolous Speech Frivolous speech is unhealthy. Refraining from frivolous speech is healthy. (MN 9) Abandoning frivolous speech, one refrains from frivolous speech. One speaks at the right time, speaks only what is fact, and speaks about what is good. One speaks what is worthy of being overheard, words that are reasonable, moderate, and beneficial. (DN 1) One practices thus: “Others may speak frivolously, but I shall abstain from frivolous speech.” (MN 8) A person should examine things in such a way that while examining them their consciousness is not stuck internally, and not clinging, they do not become agitated. Then there is no origination of suffering. (MN 138)

Reflection Suffering arises when consciousness gets stuck internally. That is to say, the mind gets attached to the things flowing through it and cannot let go of one thing to allow the next thing to arise. This can happen a lot when we are communicating. How often do you appear to be listening to someone when in fact you are rehearsing what you are going to say next? Right speech requires unsticking the mind from its internal clinging. Daily Practice Encourage your mind to work like Teflon, encountering everything but not getting attached or stuck to the objects it becomes aware of. This requires listening to a person speak, for example, without grabbing hold of a particular word or phrase but remaining open to everything that is said. Stay focused on what is happening in the present moment and respond appropriately, without projecting your own internal attachments. Tomorrow: Reflecting upon Social Action One week from today: Refraining from False Speech Share your thoughts and join the conversation on social media #DhammaWheel Questions? Visit the Dhamma Wheel orientation page.

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