Revoked

Friday, November 22, 2024

Thursday, November 21, 2024

Via Dhamma Wheel | Right Action: Reflecting Upon Social Action

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)

Reflection

The historical Buddha did not talk much about social action, and the field of social action is being artificially added here to the traditional list of the three kinds of action: bodily, verbal, and mental. Social action is an important concern in the modern world, and for decades engaged Buddhists have been addressing issues of how the traditional teachings can inform contemporary concerns for promoting greater social harmony.

Daily Practice

The quality of intention you put into social action is going to have an effect on the results, much like the planting of seeds affects the harvesting of fruit. It is important to change the inequities and injustices that abound in society but equally important to do so motivated by generosity, kindness, and wisdom rather than by greed, hatred, and delusion. Practice manifesting positive qualities in all the work you do toward social change.

Tomorrow: Abstaining from Intoxication
One week from today: Reflecting upon Bodily Action

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Via Daily Dharma: Demystify Suffering

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Demystify Suffering

Our suffering is not mysterious and inexplicable; it is grounded in the bare facts of human existence. To understand it, we must unflinchingly accept the nature of the human condition, its finiteness, limitation, and circumscription by the metaphysical particulars of the world.

Samir Chopra, “The Anxiety of Existence”

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Why Change Shouldn’t Surprise Us
Ann Tashi Slater in conversation with Malcolm Gladwell

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Ann Tashi Slater speaks with best-selling author Malcolm Gladwell about the possibility for dramatic reversals, how to deal with uncertainty, and what it means to belong to a community.

Viaa 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)

Reflection

This guideline for speech can sound more oppressive than it is. We are not all teaching Buddhas, and much of what we say may not be directly contributing to the edification of the world. The call is for us to use speech that is "reasonable, moderate, and beneficial. " This is practical advice to laypeople who will naturally speak of daily affairs but are encouraged to do so in a way that is healthy.

Daily Practice

When you speak, see that your words are weighty and worthwhile. Speak up when people are listening, and refrain from interrupting others. Always speak the truth, and try your best to emphasize what is positive and helpful rather than being overly critical and saying things that would hurt people. You have to be mindful to speak carefully. The practice of mindful speech is worthwhile in its own right and conducive to well-being.

Tomorrow: Reflecting upon Social Action
One week from today: Refraining from False Speech

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#DhammaWheel

Questions? Visit the Dhamma Wheel orientation page.

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Via Daily Dharma: Inner Luminosity

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Inner Luminosity

The sun does not need to ‘try’ to shine; it simply radiates light by its very nature. In the same way, our true nature is already luminous and clear, spontaneously present at all times.

Pema Düddul, “Finding Presence”

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