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) I assert and proclaim such a teaching that one does not quarrel with anyone in the world. (MN 18)

Reflection It is entirely natural that people have differences of opinion. It is not entirely necessary that they quarrel about these by getting angry, abusive, or dismissive, or otherwise generating unhealthy and harmful emotions. It is enough to hold and express your own opinions and let others hold and express theirs. You can still encourage them to change their opinions but to do so in discussion and conversation rather than with quarreling.  Daily Practice See if you can imagine what sort of a teaching you might follow such that you would not be inclined to quarrel with anyone in the world. Do you have to take it personally when someone disagrees with you? Do you need to have other people change their opinions to align with yours? See what it feels like to acknowledge that others have different opinions than yours and to feel at ease with that, with no need to have them change. 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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