Via Dhamma Wheel | Right Action: Reflecting upon Social Action

 

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RIGHT ACTION Reflecting Upon Social 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 social action is to be done with repeated reflection. (MN 61) One reflects thus: “I shall initiate and sustain mental acts of kindness toward my companions, both publicly and privately.” One lives with companions in concord, with mutual appreciation, without disputing, blending like milk and water, viewing each other with kindly eyes. One thinks thus: “It is a gain for me, it is a great gain for me, that I am living with such companions in the spiritual life.” (MN 31)

Reflection Of the three kinds of action recognized in Buddhist teaching, mental acts are more important than verbal and bodily actions because we say and do things only after we think them. The system of cause and effect generated by our thoughts is called karma, and we create either healthy or unhealthy karma not only by acting and speaking but also with every mental action. Attending to the quality of the mind is so important. Daily Practice In the privacy of your own mind, practice thinking good thoughts about people. This can be a kind of guerilla lovingkindness practice, in which you send friendly and benevolent thoughts to people without them knowing you are doing so. See what a good effect this has on your own mind. The people you direct your kindness to do not need to be aware of your thoughts; you only have to generate them to reap the benefits. Tomorrow: Abstaining from Intoxication One week from today: Reflecting upon Bodily Action Share your thoughts and join the conversation on social media #DhammaWheel Questions? Visit the Dhamma Wheel orientation page.

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