Via Dhamma Wheel | Right Speech: Refraining from False Speech

 

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RIGHT SPEECH Refraining from False Speech False speech is unhealthy. Refraining from false speech is healthy. (MN 9) Abandoning false speech, one dwells refraining from false speech, a truth-speaker, one to be relied on, trustworthy, dependable, not a deceiver of the world. One does not in full awareness speak falsehood for one’s own ends or for another’s ends or for some trifling worldly end. (DN 1) One practices thus: “Others may speak falsely, but I shall abstain from false speech.” (MN 8) When one knows overt sharp speech to be true, correct, and unbeneficial, one should try not to utter it. (MN 139)

Reflection It is easy for us to admonish other people and point out their faults, especially when we are right about them. The meaning of right speech does not end with the admonition to speak the truth; it also guides us to say only what is beneficial. What is gained by  calling someone a jerk if doing so does not help them become less of a jerk? Skillful speech not only speaks the truth but also works to improve any given situation. Daily Practice See if you can discern in any given situation what will be beneficial to say and what will not. Publicly calling out someone’s faults can feel gratifying, especially when it seems entirely justified, but it may do more harm than good. If what you want to say does not contribute in some way to an overall improvement of things, you should resist the temptation to speak out and should try not to utter hurtful speech, even if it is true. Tomorrow: Reflecting upon Bodily Action One week from today: Refraining from Malicious Speech Share your thoughts and join the conversation on social media #DhammaWheel Questions? Visit the Dhamma Wheel orientation page.

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Via Daily Dharma: Have an Open Heart

 

Have an Open Heart

Openheartedness helps us gain a wider perspective and realize that we’re all vulnerable and fragile.  Kimberly Brown, “Want to Change Someone’s Mind? Try This Instead.”  CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE

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Via Ram Dass - Love Serve Remember Foundation // Words of Wisdom - September 6, 2023 💌

 

"Don't be afraid of making mistakes. The journey is between listening to the inner voice and making a choice to take action. The minute you make a decision, if you feel it is disharmonious with another plane of existence, you must go back inside again -- it's an art form of continually emptying to hear anew.

Imagine being in a relationship where two people are meeting each other anew all the time. Imagine how freeing it would be." - Ram Dass