From one perspective it can be said that the entire spiritual path rests on the development and cultivation of a particular mind state known simply as equanimity. When highly developed, equanimity brings about an unshakable quality of mind that allows us to ride the inevitable changes of the human experience with balance and ease. We must be careful to not confuse the neutrality of equanimity with a sense of disconnection or indifference toward ourselves and others. As Joseph explains, this universal mental factor is present in every wholesome state of mind, making it difficult to overestimate its value in cultivating spacious impartiality.

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‘There is no single factor so potent in promoting the good of beings as right view’ - Buddha

Joseph describes the wisdom factor of mind that is Right View and the function this understanding serves in illuminating both the causes, and the means for cessation, of suffering. Our actions are often rooted in the unwholesome thoughts that stem from a false view of the Self. Acting in a manner that serves and enhances the right view of non-self is the underlying context for all of our practice. It is the beginning and the end of the path, to understand the truth of Dukkha and abandon all of its causes.

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‘The mind free of desire is a greater pleasure”

 

An enlightening discourse on the often confounding subject of renunciation, and the ways in which we might find value in this practice. Joseph draws on initial inquiries from the Buddha in determining the drawbacks of pleasure seeking-behavior in relation to the potential benefits of what he calls the ‘non-addictive’ state. Understanding the roots of our thoughts and desire systems is the first step in bringing greater awareness to our actions and the karma that unfolds therein

 

 

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What is it that we actually learn from being mindful? What wisdom emerges from the practice of awareness that has the power to liberate our hearts and minds from the suffering we experience? Joseph explores this question in depth, highlighting the Buddha’s instruction to abandon that which does not belong to us. The goal becomes clear, but the means for accomplishment are often less obvious. Insights are offered in an effort to help cut though our layers of identity, and to the sense of self to which we have become so attached.

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Joseph is joined by long-time friend and fellow MPN ambassador, Raghu Markus, for an in-depth discussion about the value of kindness in our speech. How we say what we are feeling is often as important as what we are saying. Additional topics covered include how we relate to pleasure (distinguishing between love and desire), recognizing our conditioning, and the significance of right view in daily life as we attempt to fully embody the law of Karma, understanding that what we do, moment-to moment, matters

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“When compassion and emptiness are both present, enlightenment is unavoidable” A lucid discourse on the virtues of emptiness, awareness, and compassion, and the fundamental role these qualities play in the unfolding of the spiritual path. The heart-mind of awakening, known as Bodhicitta, is explored on its relative level of compassion, and its more ultimate level relating to the empty and aware nature of the mind itself.

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Joseph outlines the life and times of the Great Sage, highlighting the relevance of his path with that of our own. On an archetypal level, the Buddha’s life serves to illuminate the aspirations and struggles that we experience in our modern existence. It is possible to connect the Buddha’s journey with our own, finding the deeper meaning and purpose within the unfolding events of our lives. His questioning of values led him to the analytical process that would eventually bring about his enlightenment. We too carry this potential, to thoughtfully evaluate our predicament and implement the changes necessary to promote a more liberated state.

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Joseph discusses some of the more seductive energies highlighted by the Buddha. These energetic fields operate on a broad spectrum, from the subtle identification with consciousness itself to the full on emotional breakdown. Learning to recognize the basic nature and allure of these qualities through practice is crucial in successfully changing our relationship to them. An attitude of genuine interest and exploration promotes both the discovery and understanding of these hindrances. The cultivation of mindfulness brings space and stability to an otherwise volatile dynamic.

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“Realized is the unconditioned, achieved is the end of craving” Can we really even imagine a mind that is free of craving, free of desire? We might occasionally glimpse this potential but often view it as something far off in the future, to be discovered only when we have mastered our minds. Joseph discusses both the possibility and the practice for bringing an end to craving in the moment. The process begins with the recognition of our arising desires and their ability to obscure our clarity and natural openness of mind. We can then be aware of the quality of mind in the absence of these desires. By closely and consistently observing this transition we are examining the very nature of its energy, and moving that much closer to the understanding and lessening of its influence.

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“It’s not difficult to be aware, it’s difficult to remember to be aware.” Joseph explores the quality of mind known in Pali as Viriya, and explains the variety of ways that it can be experienced. In its basic form the term refers to the energy that allows us to engage with the world around us. The art of meditation involves learning how to cultivate this quality in an effort to apply it in useful and appropriate ways. Wisdom comes through a gradual process, requiring a steady flow of energy to be both initiated and sustained. Viriya provides the crucial factor needed for wisdom to continue to grow throughout our lives.

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