Via Dhamma Wheel | Right Action: Reflecting upon Verbal Action

 

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RIGHT ACTION Reflecting Upon Verbal 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 verbal action is to be done with repeated reflection. (MN 61) When you wish to do an action with speech, reflect upon that same verbal action thus: “Would this action I wish to do with speech lead to both my own affliction and the affliction of another?” If, upon reflection, you know that it would, then do not do it; if you know that it would not, then proceed. (MN 61)

Reflection Habits of speech follow the same principles as habits of body and mind. Whatever you practice doing, you learn to do, and however you practice speaking, you learn to speak that way. If you speak well of others, are kind in your intentions, and always take care to say only what is true, your character will be molded in that direction. The opposite is also true, and it is not hard to pick up unhealthy and hurtful habits of speech. Daily Practice Practice mindfulness of speech. This means speaking with conscious awareness rather than reacting automatically to what others say or venting the first emotion to surge into your mind. Reflect on the effect your words are likely to have on others before you let fly, and take care not to do harm to yourself or others. In fact, any time you are harming others with your words, you are also harming yourself. Speak carefully. Tomorrow: Abstaining from Taking What is Not Given One week from today: Reflecting upon Mental Action Share your thoughts and join the conversation on social media #DhammaWheel Questions? Visit the Dhamma Wheel orientation page.

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