Friday, November 24, 2023

Via Dhamma Wheel | Right Living: Abstaining from Intoxication

 


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RIGHT LIVING
Undertaking the Commitment to Abstain from Intoxication
Intoxication is unhealthy. Refraining from intoxication is healthy. (MN 9) What are the imperfections that defile the mind? Negligence is an imperfection that defiles the mind. Knowing that negligence is an imperfection that defiles the mind, a person abandons it. (MN 7) One practices thus: “Others may become negligent through intoxication, but I will abstain from the negligence of intoxication.” (MN 8)
Reflection
An intoxicated mind is a negligent mind, no matter what toxin it is under the influence of. Whether alcohol, drugs, misinformation, bigotry, conceit, illusion, or some other harmful influence, all act to distort the functioning of the mind and obscure its capacity to see clearly, thus contributing directly to suffering. Right living requires an honest assessment of and strong commitment to abstaining from negligence in all its many forms.

Daily Practice
Deliberately undertake the practice of non-intoxication by noticing when you are free of anything that causes negligence. This may not be sustainable for long, given the many things that can diminish our alertness and clarity. But at least be aware of the moments when your mind is alert and clear. Perhaps you can gradually extend those moments, and the skill of right living can grow.

Tomorrow: Maintaining Arisen Healthy States
One week from today: Abstaining from Harming Living Beings

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Via Daily Dharma: Don’t Add Difficulty to Difficulty

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Don’t Add Difficulty to Difficulty

Do not become annoyed when faced with difficulties. To do so merely adds difficulty to difficulty and further disturbs your mind.

Master Sheng Yen, “Nonopposition”


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"“On occasion, I will feel free to use the word. Science is not only compatible with spirituality; it is a profound source of spirituality. When we recognize our place in an immensity of light years and in the passage of ages, when we grasp the intricacy, beauty and subtlety of life, then that soaring feeling, that sense of elation and humility combined, is surely spiritual.” - Carl Sagan

[https://www.themarginalian.org/.../carl-sagan-on-science.../](https://www.themarginalian.org/2013/06/12/carl-sagan-on-science-and-spirituality/?fbclid=IwAR2Dji1Zaz5wzJlRKe7mzlptDe0JF0rqrr5P_

Science, in its relentless pursuit of understanding, has unraveled the magnificent tapestry of our existence. From the primordial energy that birthed the universe to the intricate processes of chemistry and biology, the story of our origins is far more awe-inspiring than any tale spun by religion or belief systems.

In this grand celebration of knowledge, science stands as the true art of understanding. It requires no blind faith or unquestioning belief; it is a spiritual journey that unveils the intricate workings of our existence. As we delve into the myriad processes that brought us into being, the mathematical probabilities far outweigh the narratives concocted by others about reality and their belief systems.

Science is the epitome of spirituality, for it reveals the profound truth that we were nothing before we were born, and we will be nothing after we depart this world. We exist in the eternal realms of the in-between, and every moment we have is precious. We owe our very existence to the relentless efforts of our ancestors, who strived to ensure our survival and pave the way for future generations.

As our technological prowess grows, so does the lamentable rise of ignorance. We find ourselves in an era where information flows at the speed of light, but the true reality of our being is often overshadowed by a multitude of platforms disseminating conflicting narratives.

It is a somber realization, but one that should fuel our determination to seek truth amidst the noise. Let us embrace the wonders of science, for it holds the key to unlocking the mysteries of our existence and guiding us towards a future where knowledge triumphs over ignorance. In this pursuit, we honor the legacy of our ancestors and pave the way for a brighter tomorrow."

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