Via Dhamma Wheel | Right Intention: Cultivating Appreciative Joy

 

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RIGHT INTENTION Cultivating Appreciative Joy Whatever you intend, whatever you plan, and whatever you have a tendency toward, that will become the basis on which your mind is established. (SN 12.40) Develop meditation on appreciative joy, for when you develop meditation on appreciative joy, any discontent will be abandoned. (MN 62)  The function of appreciative joy is being unenvious. (Vm 9.95)

Reflection The reason for working so consistently with intention and for developing healthy intentions like appreciative joy is to clear the mind of toxic states like envy and discontent. When you are able to feel good about the good fortune of others, you cannot at the same time feel bad about it. Just as suffering is the trigger of compassion, seeing people do well and be healthy gains access to joy. Daily Practice Look around you at any time of day and notice things that are going well for yourself and for other people. We are often habituated to seeing the fault in things. Try deliberately to go in the other direction and be aware of positive situations and events. Then allow yourself to feel gently joyful about them. There is a lot that is going well in our world, and it is a worthy practice to take notice of these things and allow them to bring joy. Tomorrow: Refraining from Harsh Speech One week from today: Cultivating Equanimity Share your thoughts and join the conversation on social media #DhammaWheel Questions? Visit the Dhamma Wheel orientation page.

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