In order to change our experiences, we have to change the way we think, feel, and react. As long as we maintain the same habits of mind, our lives will continue with a similar amount of suffering, anxiety, or anger. Buddha teaches us that our lives are projected from our mind. In this episode, we will attempt a daily meditation and mindfulness practice to change our thoughts and feelings and project a new, more peaceful reality. 

 

Easy is life 

For someone without a conscience,

Bold as a crow,

Obtrusive, deceitful, reckless, and corrupt. 

 

Difficult if life

For someone with a conscience,

Always searching for what’s pure,

Discerning, sincere, cautious, and clean-living.

 

One digs up one’s own root

Here is this very world

If one kills, steals, lies,

Goes to another’s partner

Or gives oneself up to drink and intoxicants.

 

Good person, know this:

Evil traits are reckless!

Don’t let greed and wrongdoing

Oppress you with long-term suffering. (verse 248)

--Buddha, The Dhammapada

 

Links and References

Buddha.The Dhammapada. Translated by Gil Fronsdale. Shambala, Boston and London, 2011, pp.63-64.

Je Tsongkhapa. Great Treatise on the Stages of the Path to Enlightenment, by Je Tsongkhapa, Volume 2. Translated by the Lamrim Chenmo Translation Committee. Joshua Cutler, Editor-in-Chief, and Guy Newlan, Editor, pp 144-150.