Via Dhamma Wheel | Right Living: Abstaining from Intoxication

 

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RIGHT LIVING Undertaking the Commitment to Abstain from Intoxication Intoxication is unhealthy. Refraining from intoxication is healthy. (MN 9) What are the imperfections that defile the mind? Negligence is an imperfection that defiles the mind. Knowing that negligence is an imperfection that defiles the mind, a person abandons it. (MN 7) One practices thus: “Others may become negligent through intoxication, but I will abstain from the negligence of intoxication.” (MN 8)

Reflection An intoxicated mind is a negligent mind, no matter what toxin it is under the influence of. Whether alcohol, drugs, misinformation, bigotry, conceit, illusion, or some other harmful influence, all act to distort the functioning of the mind and obscure its capacity to see clearly, thus contributing directly to suffering. Right living requires an honest assessment of and strong commitment to abstaining from negligence in all its many forms. Daily Practice Deliberately undertake the practice of non-intoxication by noticing when you are free of anything that causes negligence. This may not be sustainable for long, given the many things that can diminish our alertness and clarity. But at least be aware of the moments when your mind is alert and clear. Perhaps you can gradually extend those moments, and the skill of right living can grow. Tomorrow: Maintaining Arisen Healthy States One week from today: Abstaining from Harming Living Beings Share your thoughts and join the conversation on social media #DhammaWheel Questions? Visit the Dhamma Wheel orientation page.

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Via Daily Dharma: Don’t Add Difficulty to Difficulty

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Don’t Add Difficulty to Difficulty

Do not become annoyed when faced with difficulties. To do so merely adds difficulty to difficulty and further disturbs your mind. Master Sheng Yen, “Nonopposition” CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE

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"“On occasion, I will feel free to use the word. Science is not only compatible with spirituality; it is a profound source of spirituality. When we recognize our place in an immensity of light years and in the passage of ages, when we grasp the intricacy, beauty and subtlety of life, then that soaring feeling, that sense of elation and humility combined, is surely spiritual.” - Carl Sagan

[https://www.themarginalian.org/.../carl-sagan-on-science.../](https://www.themarginalian.org/2013/06/12/carl-sagan-on-science-and-spirituality/?fbclid=IwAR2Dji1Zaz5wzJlRKe7mzlptDe0JF0rqrr5P_

Science, in its relentless pursuit of understanding, has unraveled the magnificent tapestry of our existence. From the primordial energy that birthed the universe to the intricate processes of chemistry and biology, the story of our origins is far more awe-inspiring than any tale spun by religion or belief systems.

In this grand celebration of knowledge, science stands as the true art of understanding. It requires no blind faith or unquestioning belief; it is a spiritual journey that unveils the intricate workings of our existence. As we delve into the myriad processes that brought us into being, the mathematical probabilities far outweigh the narratives concocted by others about reality and their belief systems.

Science is the epitome of spirituality, for it reveals the profound truth that we were nothing before we were born, and we will be nothing after we depart this world. We exist in the eternal realms of the in-between, and every moment we have is precious. We owe our very existence to the relentless efforts of our ancestors, who strived to ensure our survival and pave the way for future generations.

As our technological prowess grows, so does the lamentable rise of ignorance. We find ourselves in an era where information flows at the speed of light, but the true reality of our being is often overshadowed by a multitude of platforms disseminating conflicting narratives.

It is a somber realization, but one that should fuel our determination to seek truth amidst the noise. Let us embrace the wonders of science, for it holds the key to unlocking the mysteries of our existence and guiding us towards a future where knowledge triumphs over ignorance. In this pursuit, we honor the legacy of our ancestors and pave the way for a brighter tomorrow."

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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)

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 Share your thoughts and join the conversation on social media #DhammaWheel Questions? Visit the Dhamma Wheel orientation page.

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Via Daily Dharma: Appreciating Hardships

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Appreciating Hardships

It is precisely our recognition of life’s inevitable hardships, along with our uprooting of the attachments that exacerbate them, that allows us to appreciate the mere fact of being. Rev. Patti Nakai, “Someone Is Jealous of You” CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE

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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)

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 Share your thoughts and join the conversation on social media #DhammaWheel Questions? Visit the Dhamma Wheel orientation page.

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Via Daily Dharma: Giving Up, Opening Up

 

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Giving Up, Opening Up By giving up our attachments in life, we open ourselves up to more opportunities, more spontaneity, and more chances to cultivate deeper connections with others. Lama Tsomo, “The Depth of Generosity” CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE