tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11292054670031295402024-03-13T07:33:52.556+07:00Zen SenseA Weekly Inspiration on Life through the Lens of Zennashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1129205467003129540.post-87396527912519604042010-01-04T22:31:00.001+07:002010-01-04T22:33:42.078+07:00Announcement<div style="text-align: center;"><br />All articles from Zen Sense's column<br />can be found at <a href="http://www.bangkokpost.com">www.bangkokpost.com</a><br /><br />or<br /><br />If you wish to contact the author,<br />click <a href="mailto:siamwalla@gmail.com">here</a>.<br /></div>nashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1129205467003129540.post-58385601219250584132009-05-11T22:55:00.001+07:002009-05-11T22:55:00.794+07:00Visakha Bucha: It’s All About Love<p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">The return of Visakha Bucha day this year is quite timely.   It provides us the much needed opportunity to stop and reflect about life.  Maybe the story behind Visakha Bucha Day will enable us to see things in perspective so that the hatred and anger we can feel in the air among different factions will eventually fade away.</p> <p><img alt="" hspace="3" src="http://www.bangkokpost.com/media/content/20090508/31072.jpg" vspace="3" border="1" /></p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="center"><em>Photo courtesy of <a href="http://www.bangkokpost.com/entertainment/entertainscoop/16348/visakha-bucha-it-s-all-about-love" target="_blank">Bangkok Post</a></em></p> <p align="justify">The reason the author believes so is because, if we look into the very heart of Visakha Bucha, which is arguably the most important of Buddhist holidays, we will see that it is all about love.  Surprised? Read on and discover why Visakha Bucha should also be remembered in association with love.</p> <p align="justify">First, let us ask ourselves what we know about Visakha Bucha.</p> <p align="justify"><strong>Textbook interpretation</strong></p> <p align="justify">If we had gone to a school that teaches the common curriculum from the Thai Education Ministry, we would probably have been taught that Visakha Bucha falls on the full moon of the sixth lunar month and that it commemorates the dates of Lord Buddha's Birth, Enlightenment and Mahaparinibbhana.</p> <p align="justify">Such is the textbook version of the meaning of Visakha Bucha. Unfortunately for most of us, this version remains the only source of our interpretation of this most important Buddhist holiday.</p> <p align="justify">But is there any other interpretation of Visakha Bucha besides knowing what date it falls on or what occasion it commemorates? Certainly.   And the key is to get to know more about the man behind the holiday.</p> <p align="justify"><strong>The man behind the holiday</strong></p> <p align="justify">If we are to be honest with ourselves, we will have to admit that we Thais seem to take the arrival of Lord Buddha for granted. In a religion known for its understanding of reincarnation and the law of cause and effect, isn't it a bit odd to think that the birth of Buddha is something that just happened?</p> <p align="justify">Of course, we may have heard of the last 10 lives as a human being of Lord Buddha, known as jataka.   The 10th reincarnation, Phra Vessantara, is perhaps the best known.  It depicts the life of Prince Vessantara who gave away all his possessions as he was perfecting the dana parami, or the virtue of unconditional, selfless giving.</p> <p align="justify">The 10 jataka depict the perfection of different virtues which in turn help purify one's karma, enabling one to reach Enlightenment.</p> <p align="justify">But, as mentioned earlier, the effort to perfect the 10 Perfections did not just ''happen.''   For a karma to bear fruit, it has to start with an intention.   Therefore, there had to be a beginning somewhere where a determined decision was first made.   When was it?   And, more importantly, who was it?</p> <p align="justify"><strong>The man behind the decision</strong></p> <p align="justify">Before we learned who the person was and the whole story behind it, let us first contemplate this metaphor.</p> <p align="justify">Imagine you are standing at an exit of a burning house.   In fact, you already feel the intense heat of the scorching flames on your body.   The next second you realize that your hair is now on fire.   You know that all you have to do is to dash out the door with all your might and you will be saved.</p> <p align="justify">Yet, you hear crying voices behind. You look back.   There, on the ground floor behind you, are people engulfed in flames, howling eerily for help.   They could not make it out by themselves either because their limbs are trapped or they could not open their eyes due to the extreme heat.   You know that, being not too far from the exit themselves, they, too, could be saved.</p> <p align="justify"><strong>What would you do?</strong></p> <p align="justify">This was exactly what happened to an ascetic named Sumeth. Born during the time of another Buddha called Dipankara, Sumeth realized that life is in fact a series of sufferings, not unlike being in a burning house.   That was why he left his comfortable, worldly life to devote himself to rigorous training to try to reach the end of suffering.</p> <p align="justify">One day, as he passed by one town, he heard that Dipankara Buddha was coming.   Elated, he dedicated himself to help the townsmen build a road to welcome the Buddha.   Sumeth knew well that, like many people during his time, if he got to meet the Buddha and devote himself as a disciple, he would soon become Enlightened, reaching the end of all his sufferings.</p> <p align="justify">Yet, as Dipankara Buddha was approaching, the road was still unfinished, leaving a distance of around a body's length that was wet and full of mud and dirt.   Throwing himself down, Sumeth the ascetic bravely invited Dipankara Buddha and his Enlightened disciples, numbering in the thousands, to walk on his back to the other side of the road so that the mud would not soil their feet and robes.</p> <p align="justify">As Dipankara Buddha was walking over Sumeth's back, he became aware of the young man's wish.   Instead of finding the easier, faster way out of the samsara by wishing for Enlightenment in that very life, Sumeth made a wish that he, too, would become a Buddha one day so that he could help as many people as Dipankara Buddha did, knowing all too well that he had to endure enormous suffering in countless lifetimes to achieve his goal.</p> <p align="justify">Dipankara Buddha looked into the future with his mental powers and predicted that Sumeth would indeed one day become a Buddha like him, a sammasambuddha.   ''Freed from human existence, you will become an effective teacher, for the sake of the world,''  Dipankara Buddha told Sumeth.</p> <p align="justify"><strong>The three types of Buddha</strong></p> <p align="justify">But what is the difference between a Buddha and someone who is Enlightened?   After all, didn't Prince Siddhartha became Buddha because he was Enlightened?</p> <p align="justify">The answer can be found in the three types of Buddha.   The first type, sammasambuddha is the rarest and requires the highest effort and the longest period of endurance.   Born when there is no dhamma teaching in the world, they become En lightened by their own effort and inherent wisdom.    A sammasambuddha then goes on to teach others how to be Enlightened like him.</p> <p align="justify">The ability of a sammasambuddha to come up with the right ''curriculum'' to guide others to nirvana is an extremely rare gift.    How rare?    According to the Pali Canon, it sounds like a sammasambuddha comes by only once in an eon.    The present Buddha that we know needed as long as four asamkhya and a hundred-thousand great kalpa to complete his 10 Perfections.</p> <p align="justify">To write the time unit of one asamkhya is to write the number 1 then add 140 zeros after it.   Four asamkhya equal one great kalpa.   A great kalpa is believed to equal 1.28 trillion years.   This is why we should not take the arrival of a sammasambuddha for granted.   We are very blessed to be born when there is one around to teach us.</p> <p align="justify">The second type of Buddha is called a paccekabuddha.   While they can attain Enlightenment by themselves, they do not teach.   If they do, they may only teach about virtuous conduct but they cannot guide people towards Enlightenment.   They do not have the ability to do so.</p> <p align="justify">The third type is called savaka-buddha, or an Enlightened disciple.   The main difference between this type of Buddha and the first two is that they could not become Enlightened by themselves.   They required the guidance or teaching of a sammasambuddha.   However, once Enlightened, they may also lead others to Enlightenment as well.   But they may not be able to reach out to all types of people as a sammasambuddha could, though.   In other words, their teaching would be most beneficial to disciples with similar psychological profiles.   A savaka-buddha is better known in Thailand as an arahant.</p> <p align="justify">Sumeth the ascetic could very well attain the third type of Buddhahood right in the life time that he met Dipankara Buddha, but he chose to forego it for the benefit of more people in the future.   Becoming a sammasambuddha, while requiring much more effort and time to endure suffering, means he would be born when there is no Buddha or the teaching of dhamma.   It would be a time that he could make himself most useful to the world.</p> <p align="justify">After Dipankara Buddha's entourage had passed, Sumeth immediately went to work.   He contemplated carefully the route to Buddhahood of all the previous sammasambuddha. Realising that he needed the 10 Perfections, Sumeth made a vow to himself to go for that goal in every lifetime, no matter how hard it would be, no matter how long it would take.   He would never, ever give up.</p> <p align="justify">We already addressed the length of time that our current Buddha had to accumulate his 10 Perfections.   But how hard could that be?   Hasn't Buddha always been born in a blessed and comfortable environment?   Hasn't he always been born into a royal family, like most of the jataka seem to indicate?</p> <p align="justify">That certainly was not the case.   Lord Buddha himself told many stories of when he was born into a humble family or even as different kinds of animals.</p> <p align="justify">And it was not just a typical humble livelihood that Lord Buddha had to endure.   The path to becoming a sammasambuddha requires one to literally sacrifice everything one has, including one's life, for others.   Lord Buddha himself compared that the number of lives that he had to sacrifice to help others were more than the number of all the coconuts in the world combined.   He was using the coconut as the visual comparison of his head being severed as he gave his life for others.</p> <p align="justify"><strong>It must have been love</strong></p> <p align="justify">Those selfless, ultimate, repeated sacrifices are the ''love'' part in Visakha Bucha.   If it was not love, what else can it be?   From forgoing one's Enlightenment opportunity to facing suffering in countless other reincarnations, the mind that would become our Lord Buddha held on to that love and never gave up.</p> <p align="justify">Therefore, on this Visakha Bucha Day, let us not think of it merely as what it is, but why it happened.   It was because of love towards us that Lord Buddha kept accumulating the 10 Perfections so that he would be born as the man who would become Buddha.   Similarly, it was because of love towards us and all sentient beings that Lord Buddha became Enlightened.</p> <p align="justify">If that love was not powerful enough, the then-Prince Siddhartha would not have tried so hard in every imaginable way to the point that he almost lost his life due to the severe demands he placed upon himself in order to attain Enlightenment.</p> <p align="justify">Arguably, it is also because of love that Lord Buddha chose how he would die.   By making his dying moment a public one, Lord Buddha knew that he could impart life's most important lessons to all who were present there and to us here in the future. Lord Buddha's final lesson, arguably summing up all his teachings, was that nothing is permanent, not even the existence of a sammasambuddha.   And because of that, we should diligently practice mindfulness in everything we do so that we, too, will be able to get out of suffering.</p> <p align="justify"><strong>Lord Buddha's love in today's context</strong></p> <p align="justify">Today, as we celebrate his life, let us look at him the way we have never looked at him before--as a flesh-and-blood human, a son, a husband and a father who had unconditional love for all.   Lord Buddha once said that his love for his son, Rahul, and his nemesis, Devadatta, is the same.   He wished that both of them could be free of all suffering.</p> <p align="justify">Could we use this important day, then, to ''upgrade'' our minds in such a way that we could give love and compassion to all, even to those who do not always agree with us?    Can we look them in the eyes and wish that they, too, be free of suffering?</p> <p align="justify">After all, we are but fellow sufferers in this endless samsara. This very life we live in is indeed such a tiny time span compared to the eons we have been born and reborn again in this cycle of suffering.   Instead of filling this time span with hatred and anger towards one another, shouldn't we spend time trying to help each other to the best of our ability so that we all would be released from suffering together?</p> <p align="justify">Eons ago, a man at the exit of a burning house, the samsara, looked back and saw us trapped inside, howling for help. Ignoring his own safety and well-being, the man dashed back to reach out to save us.   Naturally, if we don't extend our hands to reach his, we would not be saved and probably face a slow, torturous death.   The ball is now in our court.  That man did try his best and he did save many already.   It is up to us, really, whether we want to stay in the burning house forever or be free, so that we, too, will be able to reach back and help others.</p> <p align="justify">The road to becoming a sammasambuddha was not a bed of roses.   It was a true labour of love right from the beginning to the very end, eons later.   Therefore, let love and compassion reign this Visakha Bucha Day.   Not only because it is the most suitable homage we can pay to the man behind it all, but also because of the fact that the path to the end of all suffering of every human and sentient being starts with love.</p> nashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1129205467003129540.post-64340993400306541222009-05-11T12:12:00.002+07:002009-05-11T12:21:23.381+07:00Towards Peace: Learning from History<p align="center"><img height="304" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/38/75154080_a40fc7a36d.jpg" width="422" /> </p> <p align="center"><em><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/blackthought/75154080/" target="_blank">Miyajima Torii</a> </em>by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/blackthought/" target="_blank">Matt Watts</a></p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">As long as the whole of mankind is not yet Enlightened, history will continue to repeat itself.</p> <p align="justify">By this, the author meant to say that, in every corner of the world, now and then, there will always be turmoil and unrest of some kind.</p> <p align="justify">History is there to be learned. And because it looks like the current unease in town is not going to evaporate overnight, let us find moments in history that might benefit us.</p> <p align="justify"><strong>From unrest to peace and prosperity</strong></p> <p align="justify">Where in the world can we find a lesson of a society ridden with skirmishes, occasional social unrest, and political power play, yet which managed to pull itself together and emerged peaceful and strong as one single nation?</p> <p align="justify">There could be many answers to this question, depending on each person's interest and/or expertise. Naturally for this author, the picture of feudal Japan comes to mind.</p> <p align="justify">For almost 700 years out of its nearly 2,000 years of civilization, Japan was under warrior rule. While some historians might argue that most of that period Japan was blessed with relative peace as opposed to constant warfare, it is also undeniable that local skirmishes occasionally exploded and power play has always been in the picture.</p> <p align="justify"><strong>When suffering is a blessing</strong></p> <p align="justify">The factor that made Japan a great country is the quality of her people. Sometimes, the author thinks that the many natural disasters that Japan experienced throughout history were in fact blessings in disguise. Through suffering and the need to survive, the Japanese learned the value of unity. They learned first hand that only by coming together in times of crisis, can the whole society prevail. Being highly social-minded, we should note, is among the forefront characteristics of the Japanese people.</p> <p align="justify">Rather than undermining their morale, common suffering has strengthened the Japanese sense of belonging. Even during the time when war became full-blown like during the Warring States Period between the 15th and 17th centuries, the country as a whole still managed to prosper. To be precise, the characteristics of war during that period seemed, to the author at least, more like that of a modern professional sports league.</p> <p align="justify"><strong>Considerate warriors</strong></p> <p align="justify">This is especially true for the Azuchi-Momoyama Period, when wars were strictly warriors' business and were fought away from town, usually in a specifically assigned area. The warriors' consideration was deliberate as they did not want to disturb the daily life of the common people. With this "arena" clearly assigned, the atmosphere was almost like the "home team" fighting with the visiting team in the home stadium.</p> <p align="justify">Except for a few major battles, skirmishes tended to be short and with minimal casualties. It was not uncommon to have just a test of martial skills between leading warriors of the warring parties. Sometimes warlords brought along an enormous number of troops just to intimidate their enemy so that both parties could go to the negotiating table without anyone "losing face." As a result, military camps seemed almost like an outing and a military campaign seemed more like an extended fishing and hunting trip.</p> <p align="justify">Needless to say, the generals and provincial lords that earned the most respect and became legends were those with great strategic thinking and negotiation skills who could solve conflicts without casualties.</p> <p align="justify"><strong>Zen comes to the rescue</strong></p> <p align="justify">And yet, it is undeniable that a warrior's life is full of physical and mental sufferings. However, records show that the warrior class did not seem to be that bothered or discouraged by such a tough life they were living. Their unabashed courage and selfless sacrifice earned them the respect of the whole nation and soon became the country's role models. How did these men train themselves so that they could live with those sufferings bravely?</p> <p align="justify">The answer is Zen. Constant mindfulness practice, especially mindfulness of death, helped change these men into transformational leaders. Also, thanks to their extensive travelling, the samurai helped make Zen popular among the common people as the latter were eager to learn the secrets of such legendary characteristics.</p> <p align="justify">We mentioned earlier that one notable characteristic of the Japanese is their high social consciousness, as seen in their willingness to sacrifice themselves, doing constructive things in line of their respective duty for the benefit of society.</p> <p align="justify">The ability to discern what is good for society is just one of the many benefits that mindfulness practice can offer. Even at the beginner's level, mindfulness practice already enables one to see that, in reality, there is no "self." Therefore, when the feudal Japanese did something for their society, their selflessness was sincere. They knew what selflessness was.</p> <p align="justify"><strong>Hope for Thailand</strong></p> <p align="justify">When we see how far the Japanese have come as a unified country, we should not lose hope in the current situation in Thailand. Let us turn each crisis into opportunity. In Buddhism, suffering is the breeding ground for wisdom and sustainable peace. But such wisdom and peace does not just "happen." It needs to be cultivated and nurtured. The tool, the only tool, to create this much-needed peace is mindfulness practice, the vipassana meditation.</p> <p align="justify">Come on, Thailand, we are a Buddhist country, like feudal Japan was. The proven solution to any trouble, social or otherwise, has always been here. The feudal Japanese came together to build a peaceful and great country out of sheer loyalty, discipline, hard work and love for their compatriots. If our rice-eating, Buddhist-influenced Asian neighbor could do it, so can we.</p> <p align="justify">Let us not wait until disaster strikes before we realize the impermanent nature of life and only then start to feel compassion for each other. If the samurai class were still around, they will definitely tell us that it is our duty to the country to be mindful and to cultivate sustainable peace.</p>nashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1129205467003129540.post-66875851976536617482009-04-22T10:58:00.001+07:002009-04-22T10:58:41.356+07:00Be a Samurai during Songkran<p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify"><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" height="318" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2120/2165654820_14ae2e7772.jpg" width="422" /> </p> <p align="center"><em><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/marser/2165654820/" target="_blank">Warm in the Cold</a> </em>by <em><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/marser/2165654820/" target="_blank">Marser</a></em></p> <p align="justify">The Songkran holiday is kicking off tomorrow.   As the year's longest-period official holiday, Songkran deserves all the hype it is getting.</p> <p align="justify">For white collars in particular, Songkran is definitely something to look forward to.   When the economy was better, middle-class Thais tended to use it to fly out of the country, feeling grateful they could escape the scorching heat even for a little while.</p> <p align="justify">This year, given the current economic downturn, more Thais are opting to stay at home.   The economy is having an effect on our mood as well.   People are a bit edgy. A  t the very least, we have become grumpy folks.</p> <p align="justify">This brings us to the importance of staying cool during this summer holiday.   It is no secret that we humans find it harder to control our temper when the weather is maddeningly hot, global-warmingly hot.   It does not help either that the town is a little bit more crowded than every year in the past.   Longer queues and overcrowded restaurants, anyone?</p> <p align="justify">So, watch out, dear readers.   With the above reasons, patience is going to be limited and tempers are going to fly this Songkran.   And we didn't even take into consideration the heated political atmosphere that is lurking in the background yet.</p> <p align="justify"><strong>Songkran and samurai</strong></p> <p align="justify">As separate concepts, Songkran and samurai do not seem to produce any mental association.   But, believe it or not, almost 300 years ago in 1714, a caring samurai teacher named Daidoji Yuzan wrote a book that sounds as if he had the image of Thais celebrating Songkran in mind!</p> <p align="justify">Titled Bushido for Beginners, the book is basically a manual for young, aspiring samurais.   Like us in the 21st century, life could be a struggle for the 18th century's Japanese warrior class.   In Tokugawa Japan, although the samurai class has been put on top of the social hierarchy, they ranked last economically, well below farmers, artisans and merchants.</p> <p align="justify">Tokugawa Japan was also known as a peaceful period.   The samurai, therefore, faced another unprecedented distress. Their practical status as warriors had been lost.   They were busy redefining their <em>raison d'etre</em>, searching for their self-esteem. Basically, they had been transformed from a revered military class into a struggling civil servant class.</p> <p align="justify">Seeing the plight of the young warriors, Daidoji Yuzan came up with that book.   At first glance, it seems to be a general career guide on "how to be a good samurai."   Reading between the lines, however, one can see that Yuzan wrote the book out of his love and concern for the younger generation.   His instructions, if dutifully followed, will lead the young men to a sustainably peaceful life.   He was coaching them how to "live smart." His real motive, therefore, was to help them out of suffering.</p> <p align="justify">Consider that the world is now experiencing universal suffering, may be it is a good idea to look at Yuzan's timeless advice.</p> <p align="justify"><strong>Be aware of death even at New Year</strong></p> <p align="justify">First, let's imagine the usual Songkran image: parties everywhere and reckless people roaming.   Year after year, statistics for road accidents during the holidays clearly show that alcohol is the number one culprit.   Yet, regrettably, the lobbyists still can not secure us a law prohibiting alcohol consumption while in a vehicle!   It is as if the authorities are trying to promote more deaths during the holidays!   But, seriously, do you think any revelers believe that they might die during the festivities?</p> <p align="justify">Now, consider the opening sentence of Yuzan's book, "The man who would be a warrior considers it his most basic intention to keep death always in mind, day and night, from the first meal on New Year's Day right through the evening of last day of the year."</p> <p align="justify">As Songkran is the Thai New Year, it would not hurt to remember Yuzan's advice and try thinking about death a little bit.   When one constantly keeps death in mind, Yuzan argued, both loyalty and filial piety are realised and a myriad of evils and disasters are avoided.</p> <p align="justify">Songkran is supposed to be the time one goes to spend time with one's extended family to show respect and filial piety to the family elders.   If we keep death in mind, both ours and theirs, chances are that we would be gentle in our words, kind in our deeds, and mindful in our thoughts.</p> <p align="justify">In his poetic language, Yuzan went on to describe a person's life as fleeting, not unlike the dew in the evening or the frost in the morning.   Being resolved that this might be the last day that we may live, Yuzan explained, one would naturally attend to one's parents with the thoughts that this may be for the last time, and one's concern for them would be sincere.</p> <p align="justify">Therefore, if you are fortunate enough to be able to pour the blessing waters on the hands of your parents and/or grandparents this year, remember that it could be the last time. This way, your Songkran moment would be memorable.</p> <p align="justify">When one forgets death, Yuzan continued, one's mind would lack prudence.   Arguments will be started over insensitive speech, and controversies will flare up concerning matters that could have been finished simply by ignoring them.   In an example quite similar to the scene at Songkran, Yuzan further reminded us to consider what could happen when one walks recklessly in the midst of crowds on temple visiting trips, bumping into strange fools and getting into unexpected fights.</p> <p align="justify"><strong>The samurai's dos and don'ts</strong></p> <p align="justify">Because of that possible scenario, Yuzan suggested the young samurai shouldn't go to high-risk places even when invited.   If travelling during the festive season is unavoidable, Yuzan recommended that one plans one's route carefully in advance to stay clear of possible troubles.</p> <p align="justify">At parties, Yuzan pointed out, smart warriors would eat and drink in moderation and train themselves to prudently keep sexual indulgence at a distance.   When having to engage in a conversation, laudable samurai would also keep their words to the minimum.   The most important thing is to diligently watch one's thoughts and words.</p> <p align="justify">The popularity of Yuzan's book is a testament that his advice works.   Being mindful at New Year's is never out of date, for now or for the 18th century samurai!</p> <p align="justify">May you all have a mindful and memorable Songkran holiday.</p> nashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1129205467003129540.post-17145743783937444182009-04-10T11:03:00.002+07:002009-04-10T11:10:42.901+07:00Ghost Stories<div style="text-align: justified; padding: 3px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/pacocanker/240832858/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/86/240832858_09e19c3280.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" alt="" /></a><br /></div><span style=" margin-top: 0px;font-size:0.8em;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/pacocanker/240832858/">Buho, Owl, Assiolo, Hibou, Uil</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/pacocanker/">Sir Francis Canker Jones</a>.<br /></div></span></div><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;">Life as a mindfulness practitioner is fun. Now and then your friends who happen to run into an unusual situation would seek your advice. One day, the author received a phone call from KL where a friend, let us call him Romeo, was visiting on a business trip.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">"Umm, I need a little favour," Romeo started.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">"I've got a colleague here. She is a Chinese Malaysian and also a Buddhist. Recently, she feels that there is a ghost in her house. She feels someone is watching her all the time, especially at night. She also said that sometimes things got knocked over around her house," Romeo explained.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">"To solve the problem, she invited some Chinese specialists to pray on the compound. It did not work. This spooky experience disturbs her a lot and she is losing sleep over it. Can you help?" Romeo asked.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">To tell you the truth, dear readers, of all the requests the author has received so far, this is most extraordinary. If you were the author, what would you do?<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">As it turned out, Romeo did not give enough time for the author to decide what to do. He quickly concluded, "Her name is KC. Now, you talk to her." With that, he handed his mobile phone to his colleague.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Right. The things we do to help our friends. But that is exactly what friends are for, isn't it? You offer a free ghost-busting service for your friend's colleague!<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Having no time to properly form a thorough answer, the first suggestion the author gave to KC was a spontaneous one. Assuming there actually are sentient beings in her house, the author told KC to first give them Loving-Kindness.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><b><div style="text-align: justify;">Loving-Kindness meditation<br /></div></b><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Loving-Kindness or Metta meditation is probably the easiest type of meditation for everyone. All we have to cultivate is our sincere compassion for other beings. Many meditation teachers would let the yogi meditation practitioners, start with giving loving kindness to themselves.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">To do so, one need not recite any actual Pali (for Theravada) or Sanskrit (for Mahayana) chant. Simply repeat in your mother tongue, "May I be happy, peaceful and free from suffering," over and over again. Some yogi believe that it helps if you do this Loving-Kindness exercise while sitting in a meditation posture, with your eyes closed. Some yogi found it helpful to also watch their breathing while repeating the Loving-Kindness phrase.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We can of course do Loving Kindness meditation in any posture, even when we walk. What is important is to put sincere, utmost effort in giving yourself that Loving Kindness.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Once your mind starts to calm down, move on to give the same Loving-Kindness to those that we respect and love. For Thais, the author would like to humbly suggest that we start with HM the King. This is a fail-proof method for us Thai practitioners. For when HM the King is the meditation focus point, you would notice that your mind and your body are easily overwhelmed with piti or joy.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Next, use that feel-good, joyous experience to continue to give Loving-Kindness to your parents, teachers, friends, etc. At the end, your mind would be ready to give Loving-Kindness to each and every being in the universe, let alone those residing in your house.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><b><div style="text-align: justify;">Because you can give<br /></div></b><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Knowing that Loving-Kindness would only work if the person feels at peace with himself/herself, the author went on to give encouragement to KC by explaining that, in Buddhist teaching, those beings would only visit the person who has enough <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">boon</span> (merit) to share. And precisely because of that, the author congratulated her for being a wholesome person, most likely blessed with a kind heart that loves to give, dhana, and live a virtuous life according to the five precepts, sila.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">KC was pleasantly surprised. She never thought of herself that way before. Realising that she indeed is a kind person who has done a lot of good deeds, her mind was at peace.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Yet, the author knew that KC might still harbour some fears regarding those beings in her home, assuming there actually are some. We humans tend to have fear of the unknown, you see. Therefore, the author thought it would help to point out to KC that, more often than not, beings from other planes usually come to ask for merit and blessings from their blood relatives. Therefore, they could be someone you have known, someone in your family. It could be her beloved grandmother or great-great grandfather.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">And this is the beauty of a Chinese family. On top of the Chinese wholesome livelihood is the loving bond among the family and the respect for the elders. The author then told KC to send her Loving-Kindness to those beings as if she would to a beloved family member. In addition to giving Loving-Kindness, the author told her that she can also go make merit or do charity work and dedicate the boon to them. KC was delighted.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><b><div style="text-align: justify;">A Zen ghost story<br /></div></b><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">KC's story reminds the author of a famous Zen "ghost story." It is about a man who once had a beautiful and loving wife who one day became sick and died young. Before she passed away, she made him promise that he would no longer seek a new love of his life, otherwise she would come to haunt him.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">After she died, the man dutifully kept his promise. Several months passed by and, as karma would have it, he fell in love again and got engaged to a new lady. The night of the engagement, the ghost of his wife did really come to haunt him. The ghost lamented that he is a bad husband, not keeping his promise, etc. Naturally, the man was really scared.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Being haunted by the ghost every night, the man finally went to see a Zen master. "Indeed the ghost is very intelligent," the master said, "She knew everything that happened between you and the new girl. What you can do now is to praise her intelligence when she comes again. But give her a deal. Tell her that you have one question to ask. If she indeed knows everything about you, then she would be able to answer. If she could not, she has to let you go so that you can begin a new life."<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">That night, without fail, the ghost re-appeared. After hearing the challenge, the ghost took the bait. She insisted that she knows everything that happens to him. The man then scooped up beans from a bag and demanded to know the number of beans in his hand. At that very moment, the ghost disappeared and never came to bother the man again.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">What we learn from this Zen ghost story is that, sometimes, the "ghost" in our life could be just an illusion of our own mind, our own conscience or our own imagination. The reason that it is so real is because we are already very scared. Being scared by our own thoughts is a sign of mindlessness. In this Zen story, the master simply gave the man an appropriate tool to trigger his own mindfulness to work for him at the time that he needed it most.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">At the moment of this writing, KC does not have a visit from invisible beings in her home anymore. In fact, she even had a very good sleep the night we had that phone conversation. So, even we cannot conclusively decide at this moment yet whether in fact there were invisible beings in KC's home or not, one thing is clear: fear starts first in one's own mind. When we give a strong immunity to our mind by mindfulness practice, we will be less likely to get haunted by our own illusions or imagination.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">With mindfulness/Zen, you will be able to see things as they really are. With mindfulness/Zen, you will be at peace with yourself and you will have enough merit to dedicate to other beings, ghosts or otherwise. Our lesson for this week is, therefore, do not wait until you actually run into a ghost in your house before you think about being generous (<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">dhana</span>), living a wholesome life (<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">sila)</span>, and learning meditation (<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">bhavana</span>).<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">See you in two weeks' time. Until then, let us always have that Loving-Kindness feeling to all beings in our heart. It may come in handy, you know. Just ask KC.<br /></div><p></p>nashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1129205467003129540.post-85222039435083491572009-03-24T12:39:00.001+07:002009-03-24T12:39:38.423+07:00Meditation FAQs<p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_uO2aOPRFClQ/SchyDi7PwAI/AAAAAAAAC2Q/aEJSYCZRJKY/s1600-h/004%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="004" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="375" alt="004" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_uO2aOPRFClQ/SchyGflbfnI/AAAAAAAAC2U/mZNwzvL_2V0/004_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="288" border="0" /></a> </p> <p align="justify">Two weeks ago in this column, we talked about the fairy-tale life of our friend Collette, who, like many contemporary Thais, has subconsciously suffered deep-rooted depression stemming from the political hullabaloo of the last few years.</p> <p align="justify">Having led a perfect life before the depression hit, Collette did not realize what she had been missing until she went to a mindfulness meditation retreat.   What happened afterwards was a pure miracle.   Until the day of this writing, Collette still enjoys her daily surprises in the form of flashes of wisdom as she goes on living her busy life happily, thanks to her faithful, 30-minute-a-day walking and sitting meditation practice.</p> <p align="justify">What is more surprising, to the author at least, is the amount of feedback the author received from that article on Collette's life. Some found it inspiring, saying it made them even more curious and interested in going to a retreat themselves.  Some who have already gone to the retreat forwarded that article to their friends who have yet to do so.   Some wondered if this fairy tale would be really possible for everyone. Others mused how long this "honeymoon period" of our protagonist would last.</p> <p align="justify">Honestly, these questions sound pretty much like the 'Frequently-Asked Questions' (the FAQs) the author and those who have gone to a retreat always received in our daily life. M  ay be it is a good idea, then, to answer them here for the benefit of all readers. </p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify"><strong>Is such an amazing experience possible for all?</strong></p> <p align="justify"><strong></strong></p> <p align="justify">Yes. Seriously. And this is the most amazing thing about the miracle of mindfulness meditation. The practice is pretty straightforward: you reap what you sowed.  And, like we discussed two weeks ago, the author's friend did give 100% of her effort during the retreat.</p> <p align="justify">Come to think about it, may be she actually gave 150% and, consequently, received such an enviable result!   As someone who enjoys a good life (meaning a gourmet's life) who is approaching the so-called 'golden age,' Collette has a slight physical challenge regarding sitting on the floor, even with supporting cushions.   As a result, she sustained more discomfort, not to mention more of the occasional meditation-induced pain, than most of us.</p> <p align="justify">The highest wisdom in Buddhism, it should be noted, starts with one's ability to see the nature of suffering and understand it.    Fortunately for Collette, what she initially perceived as her drawback turned out to be her blessing in disguise.   For it was through her pain that her first true flashes of wisdom arose.    A very defining moment, it propelled her to a higher state of mind, a state that enabled her to sit with the pain with a smile. Right from that day until the end of the retreat.</p> <p align="justify">Looking back, Collette said she realized that the pain-conquering experience alone is such an invaluable life asset. She now knows how to handle any physical or mental challenges in her life, right into the very last days of it.   Having seen grandparents and older relatives in their last moments, Collette knew how dreadful the pain for the terminally ill could be. When one becomes very ill with the kind of pain that modern medicine can no longer help, it is this very skill, mindfulness meditation skill, that we humans need the most.</p> <p align="justify">Before going to the retreat, Collette never knew that, like everybody before her who gave 100%, she also has the capability to cultivate this valuable pain-conquering skill.    If the author had told her that she could acquire that in seven days, Collette would probably have said the author was crazy. Now it is Collette who enjoys telling her family and friends of that defining moment of hers, the moment she gained wisdom through the pain.</p> <p align="justify">The lesson of this story is, do not worry that your physical condition may be a hindrance to your chance to gain wisdom from meditation.    For each one of us, there would be the most suitable conduit through which the <em>Dhamma</em> would occur. For Collette, it happened to be through a pain that was heightened by her physical condition. What would yours could be? Don't you want to find out?</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify"><strong>How long would the "honeymoon" last?</strong></p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">There are two aspects of the meditator's "honeymoon period" that the author would like to address.    First, the meditation-induced "high" or various kinds of <em>Piti </em>or <em>Vipassanupakilesa</em>. Some positive, meditation-induced physical and mental phenomena could last days, weeks, or even months.    Soon, the <em>Dhamma</em> would reveal itself, though, no "high" would last forever.   And that would be when the value of the second aspect would shine.</p> <p align="justify">The second aspect, the one that is more lasting, is the wisdom-induced peace of mind.    While less stirring than the "high," it proves to be the more meaningful one of the two.    This is especially true for those who continue to practice mindfulness diligently every day after coming out of the retreat, like our friend Collette does.</p> <p align="justify">In other words, by repeating the techniques we learned from a retreat in our daily life, we are in essence re-living the retreat experience every day.   This means more meditation-induced wisdom.    Accompanying that unique type of wisdom is the state of mind that feels relieved and at peace.    And this is the most difficult part to describe to those who have yet to go to a retreat.</p> <p align="justify">It starts when the mind "knows." Knows what?    You have to find out yourself in a retreat.    It is something that no words can describe because it is truly beyond everyday cognitive experience.    All the author could say is that what the mind knows would make you feel good unconditionally.    Well, with the world currently in a state of both political and economic mess, nothing beats the ability to feel good unconditionally, dear readers.    Just ask Collette.</p> <p align="justify"><strong>Useful tip for "the returner"</strong></p> <p align="justify">Now, a useful tip for Collette herself and those like her, someone who just returned from their first meditation retreat. Tell people around you not to expect an angel!    Most likely than not, no matter how unbelievably good the experience we might have had from our retreat, we are nowhere near the state of the Arahantship yet.    This means we are still subject to experience the usual mental defilements, be it anger, disappointment, fear, desire, or any other mishaps.    The difference is that we would be able to deal with it better and get over it faster, that is all.</p> <p align="justify">The more we continue to practice, the better our "mindfulness engine" would be, meaning the faster we will get over those nasty moments and the better we can handle it.    So, the next time you amaze those around you with your new-found "magic," be it with your incredible patience or your Zen-like calm, tell your wide-eyed audience that this skill is not definite yet.   You still can't switch to the "enlightened-mode" on-demand, you can say, but you are enjoying every minute making progress towards that.</p> <p align="justify">See you in two weeks.    Until then, let us stay mindful.</p> nashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1129205467003129540.post-81590703393372395982009-03-10T09:27:00.001+07:002009-03-10T09:45:01.613+07:00It Could Happen to You<p align="justify"> </p> <p align="center"><img height="318" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3287/2646265221_881d97b469.jpg" width="422" /> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/visbeek/2646265221/" target="_blank"><em>You Travel Far to Discover Home</em></a><em> by </em><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/visbeek/" target="_blank"><em>Ben</em></a></p> <blockquote> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center">“Fairy tales can come true. It can happen to you... if you're young at heart.”   </p> <p align="center"> </p> </blockquote> <p align="justify">Well, although what you are about to read now is not exactly a love story, it does have its fair share of love.   The reason we have this headline is because, while the author was gathering thoughts for this piece, this very phrase actually popped up in mind.</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">Being a true believer in intuition, the author decided to stay with it.   Who knows, this headline might draw the attention of someone out there who normally does not care to read this humble column, especially the romantic type!</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">Today we are going to look into a real life story of one of the author's friends from high school years.   She kindly allowed the author to share her story with the readers because she also believes it would really benefit someone who may have led a life similar to her.   In other words, she also believes that it could happen to you, dear readers.</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify"><strong>Could it be you?</strong></p> <p align="justify"><strong></strong></p> <p align="justify">Enters Collette (her French nickname, given by our French teacher in high school).   Collette used to believe that she has always had a decent life.   And the author agrees with her. She is a bright lady brimmed with so much energy that she always electrifies everyone around her.   And because of that, she has always been an achiever who has done great things not only for herself but for others around her as well.</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">Since high school, Collette made it to the university and faculty of her first choice and thoroughly enjoyed her college years. Then, she went overseas for her masters'.   Coming back to Thailand, she fell in love and got married with a good-looking, respectable gentleman who dotes on her and who has also won the heart of her family.</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">If that alone is not enough.   Collette has more.   She always got to do what she wanted to do, not only in her career, but also in social work which is as important to her life as her family and work.   She made some decent investment in real property and stocks and she was able to live comfortably.</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">Collette travelled a lot, both in Thailand and abroad.   A life-long educational advocate, she always enjoyed learning new things and became the indispensable source of information when her friends need help.   From health care to travel tips to restaurant recommendations, all you have to do is to give Collette a call. You won't be disappointed.</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">A perfect life, you might say.   What more could a lady ask for? Children?   Well, she and her husband do not have any but that was also their wish.   She is busy enough now with her beloved nephew and never felt that her life is missing anything.</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">This first part of fairy tale's life was abruptly disrupted recently, when Thailand has entered a period of political and social mess. Being highly social-minded (she spent six months in Phuket helping victims of the 2004 Asian Tsunami), Collette felt exhausted. She developed some kind of deep-rooted depression that slowly built up in her subconscious mind.   She felt that no matter what she did or tried to do to help the society, we are still in a big political, social, and moral chaos.</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">No matter how much love and dedication her husband, family and friends gave her, Collette was not able to shake off that heavy feeling.   It took a toll on her health.   One day, she found herself crying at night, not knowing exactly why she did so.</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">Being a courageous lady, she thought she could tough it out like she used to do with any other issues in life.   It turned out that she could not.   For three months, Collette found herself crying every night.</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">No matter how much merit she tried to do, no matter how many good activities she tried to engage herself in, her depression did not go away.</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">Collette was crying when she called the author one evening. She did not know what was happening to her.   After trying to calm her down and give her some positive encouragement, the author invited her to come along for a mindfulness meditation retreat.</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">Although Collette knew that it is a good thing to do, especially if you are a Buddhist, she did not agree to go immediately.   In other words, she still could not connect how mindfulness meditation could help her in the real world, in her daily life. Instead, she turned to a life of nightly parties.   She tried to travel abroad even more often. But she could not get away from the depression in her own mind.</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">The author could not remember how long time went by until Collette gave another call.   Perhaps it was months later.   This time, she was more composed.   Sensing that she might be ready to go now, the author invited her again, "Hey, I'm going again in two weeks' time.   Wanna join?"</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">Without hesitation, Collette said, "Yes, can you please book a place for me?"</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">The author literally jumped with joy.   "Yes!" was the reaction that spontaneously sprang up in the author's mind.   For the author knew that, with her energy and her dedication to a cause she believes in, she would excel in her retreat and thus being able to lift herself out of her constant depression.</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">The author was not disappointed.   Collette did give 100% in her very first retreat.   The author observed with admiration how she delved into each practice session with sheer determination and zest.   It was only the fourth day of our eight-day, seven-night retreat that Collette came to realize what life actually is and what her purpose of life should be.</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">She was able to see, by herself and not by anyone telling her so, that each and every suffering she experienced in life only came from within.   And she also learned that, while she can not change the world, she could indeed change herself and achieve peace even if she is still living among the same old chaos.   She also discovered that if she wants to continue "saving the world," she could still to do so.   The only difference is that now she already sees that the only cause worth promoting to people is the cause of mindfulness.</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">If people have mindfulness in the Buddhist sense of the word, Collette discovered, the society would naturally be peaceful simply because one would be able to have compassion for all.</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">In one lengthy sitting session when the pain disturbed her so much while she was concentrating on cultivating mindfulness, she saw, with her mind's eyes, flashes of the brands of her favorite alcohol drinks.   Then, a wisdom inside her told her that she has to quit this if she wants to have sustainable peace in her life.</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">And once she gave a determined vow to herself and to Lord Buddha during that sitting that she would not touch those beverages anymore, Collette experienced miracle.   She was able to live with that pain with a peaceful mind.   The pain did not go away miraculously, but her mind was lifted up one notch.   And she was free. </p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">In later sitting sessions, she even found herself smiling during the sitting.   Collette has found the proven path to the peace within.</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">And Collette is now back on her fairy tale's life again, thanks to her willing to be "young at heart," meaning always opening up to learn new things.   In Zen parlance, we call it "a beginner's mind."   A Zen mind/beginner's mind opens up to any possibilities and not limited to our past experience.</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">Now, because she could make peace with herself, she could make peace with anyone.   And that is the part that is related to love.   For Collette was able to give loving kindness to all beings, including to her so-called political foe.   Her complexion, a reflection of her mind, is now glowing healthily.   Everybody in her family was astonished how glowing and happy she was when they welcomed her back home.   Now everyone in her family wants to go the retreat.</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">If you have lived your life like Collette did, believing that you already have a decent livelihood and never cause harm to anyone, Collette has a message for you.   "This (the mindfulness retreat) is the best thing that ever happened in my life.   I wished I had done it earlier."   She is still the same highly energetic Collette, but she now knows how to let go.   Collette is as driven as ever, but she no longer feels exhausted.   If this is not a fairy tale with a happy ending, then, what do you think it is?</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">Well, what are you waiting for?   It could happen to you, you know. :-)</p> nashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1129205467003129540.post-56582605406539997722009-02-22T10:42:00.001+07:002009-02-22T10:42:11.183+07:00The Zen of Pain: Part II<p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify"><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" height="288" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2350/1587115891_638c872e3b.jpg" width="425" /> </p> <p align="center"><em><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ceekay/1587115891/" target="_blank">Crying Baby</a> </em>by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ceekay/1587115891/" target="_blank">CeeKay’s Pix</a></p> <p align="justify">Two weeks ago, we began our discussion on something that all of us will sooner or later come across in life - pain.   We looked into the nature of pain and also the fact that pain is in fact one of Zen's specialties.</p> <p align="justify">This week, let us hear from a Zen master what he has to say about pain and illness in general.  After all, it is better to know beforehand how to handle pain and illness while you are still relatively healthy. To try to cram on this mind-training practice when you are already in deep pain or severe illness is going to be much harder.</p> <p align="justify">By the way, the emphasis on Zen does not mean that Buddhist masters of the Theravada tradition are less able than their Zen counterparts when it comes to gaining wisdom from pain. To practice <em>vipassana</em> under a good teacher, one naturally knows what pain is. <em>Vedana</em> (feelings or sensation) is one of the Four Foundations of Mindfulness, <em>Satipatthana</em> is that which one would definitely encounter and gain wisdom from.</p> <p align="justify">The difference, perhaps, is the emphasis. From the little experience that the author has had with both traditions, Zen seems to zero in on the ability to cultivate wisdom out of extremely trying physical and mental conditions. This applies not just to <em>zazen</em>, or sitting meditation, but on other types of Zen-inspired training as well such as martial arts.</p> <p align="justify">Moreover, it does not mean that one has to engage in one "formal" form of Zen training or another in order to have a shot at wisdom and, consequently, freedom from suffering.  The ability to apply Zen to daily living so that one would know how to deal with impromptu physical and mental suffering is what Zen is all about.</p> <p align="justify">The following are insights from the teachings of Zen master Seung Sahn, to which the author has added additional commentaries.</p> <p align="justify"><strong>Your Physical Body is Not Your True Self</strong></p> <p align="justify">The first lesson from Master Seung Sahn is that you have to understand that your physical body is not your true self.</p> <p align="justify">Well, that is a tough one.  For those who have not physically experienced in a retreat the fact that the body and mind are two separate entities, this very first lesson is already difficult to swallow.   How could my body not be my "self"?  If it is not "me" that can feel, and in turn got terrified of, pain, who could that be?</p> <p align="justify">Relax, the master said. Do not be afraid of your sickness (and/or pain).   At times everybody is afraid of what will happen to their body.   Rather than assuming that "I must be healed," the master suggested that we must understand the Ultimate Truth first.</p> <p align="justify">And what is that Truth?  It is that everyone dies.</p> <p align="justify"><strong>The Question Worth Asking</strong></p> <p align="justify">Certainly, we will all die. In fact, we can even die sooner than any statistics suggest, meaning our death could be from countless other causes totally unrelated to our illness.</p> <p align="justify">Once that realization is firmly settled in our minds, the next logical question would naturally follow, "... Why, then, do I have to go through this much suffering of illness, pain, and, on top of that, face the fear of dying?"</p> <p align="justify">The question itself gives hint to the answer. If there was no "you" to begin with, would there be any being that can feel the pain?  Definitely not.</p> <p align="justify">It is because "we" were born that there is this physical body to serve as a breeding ground for various illness and hence the pain.</p> <p align="justify">It is because we were born that we must become ill, have pain, and die.</p> <p align="justify">One of my <em>vipassana</em> teachers even went one step further and suggested that, when we were asked what caused the death of Mr so-and-so whom we happened to know, we should simply reply, "birth."</p> <p align="justify">My teacher is right. Birth is the real "natural cause" of death. Not only for Mr so-and-so, but also for all of us.</p> <p align="justify"><strong>Turn This Pain into an Opportunity</strong></p> <p align="justify">But why do we have to be born, then, to face all these sufferings?  If you have not yet found your teacher and started practicing mindfulness, this question may pop up in your mind now and then.  The more pain you have or the more serious your illness is, the more often this question would come up to bother you.</p> <p align="justify">This is how Master Seung Sahn's teaching fits in.  He simply invited us to find out first what human beings really are, meaning why we were born, and what for?   His reason is that, if you do indeed find the answer, your direction will be clear when you die.</p> <p align="justify">And if not?  The Master gave a simple and to-the-point answer.  He said that our consciousness will go round and round.  If the pain you are facing now, either physical and mental, seems unbearable to you, the idea of facing that very same pain over and over again should at least make you cringe and try to find out more how to get out of all this as soon as you can.   Not just this very present pain, but <em>every</em> future pain.</p> <p align="justify">If losing your direction while you are still living is a problem, imagine how horrifying it would be if you lose your direction when you are dying?  How can you be sure that you could direct your mind, your consciousness, into the <em>right </em>direction?</p> <p align="justify">Having survived near-death experience before, the author could assure the readers that indeed mindfulness does help in that crucial moment.   At least, your mind is calm, your direction is clear.   The result?  Well, to each his own karma.</p> <p align="justify">This brings us to ask ourselves if we have created any positive karma lately?  Even in pain and illness, you can still create good karma for yourself. How?  By living a Zen life and practicing mindfulness at every waking moment, of course!   If you are now having pain in your life, regard it as a perfect opportunity to become Enlightened.   All you have to do is to start finding out what your true self is.  Think of it as the most special gift you can give to yourself because, quite frankly, we all deserve it.</p> nashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1129205467003129540.post-65273746598236828402009-01-31T10:36:00.002+07:002009-03-24T12:53:30.628+07:00The Zen of Pain: Part I<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1350/1033156762_addc2c997b.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 500px; height: 375px;" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1350/1033156762_addc2c997b.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><blockquote>It is important to realize that pain, crashing though it can be, comes in waves. Mindfulness training will help you find refuge betweens those breaks. <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/cheggui/1033156762/" target="_blank"><em>Crashing Waves</em></a><em> by </em><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/cheggui/" target="_blank"><em>Jose Guillermo</em></a></blockquote></div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/cheggui/" target="_blank"><em></em></a><blockquote> <p> </p> </blockquote> <p>In our life as a human being, one thing we can not escape from is pain. Physical or mental, one-time-off or long-term, we are likely to be exposed to it sooner or later in life, if not already.</p> <p>Yet, inevitable as it is, we do not seem to have a clue what it is. Has it ever occurred to you that while the pain we sustain is right here with us, either with our body or mind, we always run to others to learn what it is and ask others how to deal with it?</p> <p>Not that the author is that much different from this conventional, spontaneous reaction. In fact, the motivation to write this week’s installment came from the very recent hospital stay due to severe migraine.</p> <p>When one experiences such acute level of pain that renders one helpless, literally grasping for air, shaking, losing sight in one eye, on the verge of throwing up while one’s jaw bones dropping and locking themselves in an unmovable, contorted position, one naturally has two desire. The first is not wanting to experience it again oneself, the second is not wanting <i>anyone </i>to have to go through this kind of pain. Ever.</p> <p>So that was the motivation behind this piece. Of course the ultimate answer that the author like to emphasize is to solve the problem at its root cause—by trying not be born again so that we would no longer have to go through this pain cycle. But that is our longer-term goal. Meanwhile, now that we have been born and still have to go through various pain in our life, let us learn how to navigate through it as best as we can.</p> <p>Here’s the catch: this attempt to learn from pain would not only help us now, but the accumulation of the learning would contribute to the eventual Enlightenment itself. Yes, it is just like killing two birds with one stone, if you would forgive the cruelty of the expression.</p> <p>This does not mean the author is telling you to avoid the doctor or any other professional help at all cost and just handle each and any pain yourself. Given our modern-day living, it is only “natural” for us to go see doctor about any pain or illness we may have. What the author is trying to tell you, though, is that there are many things you could do to be better informed about your pain before, during, and after you receive a medical treatment. Consider it your personal bonus, if you will.</p> <p><b>The Nature of Pain</b></p> <p>First of all, like anything else in life, pain <i>is </i>impermanent. For those with really sharp mindfulness or those practicing in a retreat, they would be able to see between the smallest temporal units of “pain interval” that happens, stays, and goes away. For some, pain may seem to come and go with every pulse, others would be able to see even between that.</p> <p>In real life, when we are likely to live move around in our “auto-pilot” mode and as a result being unaware of this very nature, most pain, physical or mental, would seem to last “forever.” This by itself is an obvious incentive to learn mindfulness. At least your mind would find it easier to remain calm because you <i>knew</i>, by experience, that your pain would not last forever.</p> <p>And why a calm mind is important in that crucial moment of intense physical pain? From the medical point of view, a calmer mind would help one deals with pain better. But one can not just achieve that calmness by just telling oneself to be calm. It is a very specialized skill that has to be practiced, under supervision, until one <i>experienced</i> it oneself how calmness can arise out of acute pain.</p> <p>At the very least, the “ability” to find temporary refuge through the “mini-break” between each pain, tiny span of time though it may be, is a big plus. Think of it as an occasional grasp of air when you are on the verge of drowning.</p> <p>When your mind is concentrated long enough on “catching” the “black hole” of time and space between each throbbing pain, a certain calmness would occur. It would likely be enough to carry you through the time you have to wait until a medical professional attend to your pain and/or the time when the first dose of steroid-laced painkiller take effect.</p> <p><b>Zen and Pain</b></p> <p>Naturally, Zen is a specialty of Zen masters. They should know best, given the grueling training of horrendously long hours of sitting meditation where any movement is <i>not </i>allowed.</p> <p>And do not underestimate the sharp eyes of a Zen master who walks down the aisle, watching his disciples sitting, carrying a wooden stick. The purpose? To hit one who moves or falls asleep. If you think you could get away with wiggling your toes under the layperson’s robe, think again. In fact, most people the author talked to fear the master (and his stick) more than one’s pain. In other words, they sort of tough it out through out the session, pain and all that. And <i>that </i>is how people gain wisdom from their <i>zazen,</i> or sitting meditation.</p> <p>And it takes years, if not a life time, of intense practice before one can truly become a Zen master, having one’s own stamp of approval from one’s teacher with a license to teach. Therefore, the masters must certainly know a think or two about pain and how one can gain wisdom from it. In two weeks’ time, we will be back discussing some interesting insights from selected Zen masters.</p> <p>Until then, let us be mindful and take good care of our physical and mental health so that no severe pain can get us and knock us unconscious! Unconsciousness is the state that is furthest removed from wisdom, the ability to remain “awakened,” so to speak. It starts with a will power, you know. A fierce determination, if you will, to get out of this suffering business altogether. The Path is not that easy, but it is attainable.</p> <p>Therefore, do not be despair if you get knocked around quite a fair bit by pain. Like a good boxer, you do get up after you have been knocked down. One day, it would be your turn. That would be the day when pain does not disturb your life anymore. It will still occur, but your mind won’t be perturbed. It will be your turn to knock the pain down. Yes, down and out.</p>nashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1129205467003129540.post-44190752579164856052009-01-27T09:21:00.001+07:002009-01-27T09:21:03.436+07:00The 38 Blessings: Part II<p> </p> <p><img height="360" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3215/2654394145_8c8b744897.jpg" width="399" /> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jup3nep/2654394145/">Somewhere far beyond</a> by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jup3nep/">Katarina2353</a></p> <p>Two weeks ago, we discussed the first half of the 38 blessings in Buddhism. We learned that the blessings seem to have been grouped together according to a theme they share.</p> <p>We also learned that, as with other Buddhist teaching, the blessings start with practices that are more common and not too difficult to achieve and subsequently move upwards in terms of difficulty level. The more effort one has to put in to create a blessing for oneself, the more rewarding the blessing is.</p> <p>For those who have missed the first half of blessings, check it out below. Now, let us take a look at the latter half of blessings and discover why they are more rewarding.</p> <p><strong>6. Blessed mindfulness</strong></p> <blockquote> <p align="center">"... 18) Avoiding unwholesomeness; 19) Not consuming intoxicants; 20) Non-recklessness in the dhamma..."</p> </blockquote> <p>By being mindful and not living one's life recklessly, one would be able to avoid life's many temptations that would lead to unwholesome acts. Consuming intoxicants directly jeopardise one's ability to be mindful, and therefore in itself is an unwholesome act.</p> <p>While blessed mindfulness comes after one has persevered and achieved the first five groups of blessings (and thus gaining enough wisdom to realise the values of mindfulness), it does not mean one cannot attempt to start from here. In Zen teaching, for example, being mindful is the first and foremost blessing of all. Arguably, if one can master the mindfulness practice, the other blessings would naturally follow.</p> <p><strong>7. Blessed humility and gratitude</strong></p> <blockquote> <p align="center">"... 21) Showing respect; 22) Being humble; 23) Being content in what one honestly earned; 25) Gratitude; 26) Listening regularly to dhamma teachings..."</p> </blockquote> <p>If any readers have experienced mindfulness practice in a retreat before, seeing this group of blessings right after "Blessed mindfulness" should not be a big surprise. This is because the very first feelings that mindfulness practitioners would likely discover in their mind are these very qualities. As a regular assistant in mindfulness retreats, the author always observed with marvel how the practice of mindfulness alone could soften the body language of people. In other words, the gentle physical gestures are merely a reflection of a tender mind.</p> <p>This group of more-refined blessings can be explained as follows. Within days of continuous mindfulness practice in a retreat, newcomers would discover unprecedented peace in their own mind, thus feeling content with what they have and how their life is. This consequently leads to the gratitude, respect and humility one feels towards one's teacher, hence the desire to listen regularly to <em>dhamma</em> teachings. </p> <p><strong>8. Blessed patience in higher learning</strong></p> <p align="center"><em>"... 27) Patience; 28) Openness to criticism; 29) Sight of a true monk; 30) Regular discussion of the dhamma..."</em></p> <p>This group of blessings is obviously a continuity of the former. Both indicate the process to gain wisdom. When one listens to dhamma teachings regularly as number 26 signifies, one gets to lay one's eyes on a true monk. Also by regularly listening to his teaching, one learns patience which enhances one's openness to criticism. A person who has mastered these blessings certainly has what it takes to be a teacher him/herself, which naturally leads to blessing number 30 - a regular discussion of dhamma.</p> <p><strong>9. Blessed efforts towards ultimate wisdom</strong></p> <blockquote> <p align="center">"... 31) Self-control; 32) Leading a holy life; 33) Discernment of the Four Noble Truths; 34) Attainment of Nirvana..."</p> </blockquote> <p>As anyone who has been to a mindfulness retreat, Theravada or Zen, would readily agree, the training is by no means a casual business. The Theravada tradition even calls for a vow to submit oneself, even one's life, to the efforts to attain the Enlightenment. To be able to uphold that vow naturally requires utmost self-control which, in turn, enables one to lead a holy life, layperson and monk alike.</p> <p>It is the noble, mindful life with constant self-control that would ultimately lead one to the ability to thoroughly understand the Four Noble Truths. And only by "seeing" the Four Noble Truths that one reaches the Enlightenment.</p> <p>Now, we are ready to discover the final group of Buddhist ultimate blessings. This may sound curious since conventional wisdom has it that the Enlightenment is the epitome of all things Buddhist. Are there in fact any other Blessings more refined than the Enlightenment experience itself? Read on.</p> <p><strong>10. Blessed state of mind</strong></p> <blockquote> <p align="center">"... 35) Mind that is not shaken by the world's constant changes; 36) Mind that is free from sorrow; 37) Mind that is free from defilement; 38) Mind that is blissful..."</p> </blockquote> <p>Perhaps the best way to explain it is through the cause-and-effect concept. Just as the previous blessings were the causes that led to the Enlightenment, the Enlightenment experience itself is the cause of this final group of blessings. The highest blessings of Buddhism, therefore, is the state of mind that is unshaken, free from sorrow and defilement. It is the blissful mind that Buddhism is all about and it is this blissful mind than all Buddhists should go after in earnest. The good news is that the blissful mind is not beyond reach. The 38 blessings have shown us clear, gradual steps that we can follow in order to reach life's highest goal.</p> <p>If we recall our discussion two weeks ago, we will realise that the very first step towards the ultimate blessing is something very simple and quite within reach - not to associate with the fool/wicked. If we can put our foot firmly on that first blessing with great determination, the rest would surely follow.</p> <p>If the idea of step-by-step progress on the blessings list seems too daunting, you can also try the Zen approach. Zen believes that, once we train our mind, the rest will follow. No matter which approach you decide to take, it is important to remember that, in Buddhism, we are in charge of our own blessings. So, hold that discouraging thought right there and take action now! If people, and sentient beings, have been able to attain the highest Blessing for more than 2,500 years, so could you!</p> <p>Let this New Year, 2552 in Buddhist Era, marks the beginning of your earnest quest for the Enlightenment. Examine your blessings often and set goals. If you are reading this column, chances are that you already achieved many blessings. May you continue relentlessly on this path and be successful this year and may you enjoy the blissful state of mind while helping others for years to come.</p> nashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1129205467003129540.post-37011170065604650862009-01-09T11:40:00.001+07:002009-01-09T11:40:58.726+07:00The 38 Blessings: Part I<p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify">The twelve days of Christmas. The eight days of Hanukkah. The seven days of Kwanzaa. Cultures around the world each have their version of multiple blessings. As 2009 is probably going to be equally tough as, or even tougher than 2008, we all need as many blessings as we can get.</p> <p align="justify">Therefore, this column is presenting today the first of a two-part series on the 38 blessings to welcome the New Year and to give encouragement and moral support to our dear readers that our life does not have to be as gloomy as the 2009 economic forecast. The reason is, in Buddhism, we are in charge of our own blessings.  It is quite up to us how we want to take on life, whether it is during recession or otherwise.</p> <p align="justify">Having said that, let us now take a tour of Buddhist blessings.</p> <p align="justify">In Buddhism, the Discourse on Blessings, <em>Mangala Sutta</em>, lists 38 items which Lord Buddha regarded as the Highest Blessings.  The <em>Sutta</em> comprises 10 sections in which a few relevant blessings are grouped together.  Buddhist scholars note that, as with other teachings of Lord Buddha, the blessings seem to run from simpler deeds towards the more sophisticated ones.</p> <p align="justify">To borrow a modern-day gamers' philosophy, we all have to start at the "first level."  Then, as our skills accumulate, we proceed to subsequent levels that have more challenging tasks.  As gamers would have agreed, the more challenging the task, the more fulfilling the reward.  Keeping this logic in mind, let us check out the list that Lord Buddha provided.</p> <p align="justify">(Note: the original quotes of Lord Buddha are those in italics and in quotation marks. The definition of each section is provided by the author for the reader's convenient reference.)</p> <p align="justify"><strong>1. Blessed company</strong></p> <blockquote> <p align="center">"... 1) Not associating with fools; 2) Associating with the wise; 3) Expressing respect to those worthy of respect..."</p> </blockquote> <p align="justify">While the first group of blessings seems to be easy enough, it is by no means less significant than those in the subsequent groups.   For if we contemplate it carefully, we would notice that the subsequent blessings could not be achieved if those in the first group are not realized.  Therefore, being in blessed company is at the same time least difficult to achieve yet most crucial to achieve if one is seeking more refined blessings in life.</p> <p align="justify"><strong>2. Blessed determination</strong></p> <blockquote> <p align="center">"...4) Living in a suitable location; 5) Having meritorious deeds in one's past; 6) Setting oneself in the right course..."</p> </blockquote> <p align="justify">To enable oneself to be exposed to as much blessings as possible in life, one must prepare oneself for it.  Buddhist blessings, it should be noted, do not come by random, by luck or at the mercy of some gods/goddesses.   By having determined to achieve a blessed life, a good Buddhist starts by setting oneself on the right course.</p> <p align="justify">Having been on the right course would enable one to be wise in choosing an appropriate location where one would spend this life. Being in a suitable location would then open up an opportunity to accumulate meritorious deeds.   Everything in life is actually a cause-and-effect, if one carefully looks at it.</p> <p align="justify">Alternately speaking, when one reflects the fact that one was able to do meritorious deeds in the past, one would realize that it started first with one's determination to do something good which then propelled one to be in the right place.</p> <p align="justify"><strong>3. Blessed learning effort</strong></p> <blockquote> <p align="center">"... 7) Extensive learning; 8) Skillfulness in one's arts; 9) Highly-trained discipline; 10) Well-spoken speech..."</p> </blockquote> <p align="justify">Determination and blessed company might already bring us many blessings.  But if we are determined to constantly improve ourselves, we must put in a lot of effort to be a thoroughly learned person.   In Buddhism, one does not become learned by forced rote-learning, but rather by having high discipline to practice our respective arts extensively and with a resolute mind.</p> <p align="justify">It is also noteworthy that being able to speak well also belongs to this group.   Lord Buddha seemed to imply that one should not consider oneself learned until one masters the skills of passing on one's wisdom to others effectively.   Talking about well-spoken speech, the author could not help but be reminded of America's President-elect Barack Obama.   He seems to be a fine example of someone who possesses the third group of blessings!</p> <p align="justify"><strong>4. Blessed responsibilities</strong></p> <blockquote> <p align="center">"...11) Filial piety; 12) Cherishing one's children and spouse; 13) Complication-free livelihood..."</p> </blockquote> <p align="justify">One may have great self-determination, be in good company, and put oneself through a strenuous learning effort, but one can not really count oneself as being really blessed if one ignores one's social responsibilities.   Lord Buddha put a lot of emphasis on filial piety, as it is also implied in further blessings. Blessing No. 13 sometimes translated as "not leaving work undone (and hence does not cause complication in one's livelihood)."</p> <p align="justify"><strong>5. Blessed generosity and charity</strong></p> <blockquote> <p align="center">"...14) Generosity; 15) Righteous conduct; 6) Caring for extended family; 17) Beneficial activities..."</p> </blockquote> <p align="justify">The fifth group of blessings is an obvious extension of the preceding group.   It implies a blessed social responsibility on a wider scale. Having righteous conduct here means one lives by the <em>dhamma</em>, thus causing no harm to others, either by thought, by words or by deeds.</p> <p align="justify">The natural next step on the moral scale for a person who lives life determined not to harm others in any way is giving.  In other words, one not only refrains from harming others, one also makes other feel good. Giving does not have to be anything material.  One can simply avail one's time and effort to the service of others.</p> <p align="justify">How are we doing so far?   How many blessings do you already have in your life?   Make sure you pass the words around that life's blessings abound for those who are determined to achieve them.   We will be back with the latter half of the 38 blessings in two weeks' time. Meanwhile, enjoy counting your blessings!</p> <p align="justify"> </p> <p align="justify"><img height="298" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3026/2523993759_bf3d409117_b.jpg" width="417" /></p> <p align="justify"></p> <p></p> <p align="center"><em>These monks exemplify the blessings from all the five groups: blessed company, blessed determination, blessed learning efforts, blessed responsibility, blessed generosity & charity.</em></p> <p align="center"><em><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/7455207@N05/2523993759/">The Monk’s Work Team</a> by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/7455207@N05/">SBA73</a></em></p> nashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1129205467003129540.post-53356535649548281352008-12-26T13:12:00.004+07:002009-01-01T14:04:29.335+07:00Disasters Within<p style="text-align: justify;" class="preParagraph">Today marks the 4th anniversary of the 2004 tsunami disaster, a catastrophe that was billed as the deadliest in history, claiming more than 200,00 lives across many countries in the Asian continent.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;" class="articlePhotoLeft"><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="width: 297px; height: 180px;" src="http://www.bangkokpost.com/media/content/20081226/3601.jpg" alt="" mce_src="/media/content/20081226/3601.jpg" vspace="3" border="1" hspace="3" /> </div><p style="font-style: italic; text-align: center;">Photo courtesy of <a href="http://www.bangkokpost.com/life/improvement/8750/disasters-within">Bangkok Post</a><br /></p></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">Most of us can likely remember the magnitude of the impact the disaster had on our lives or people close to us. In the wake of the tragedy, many people who were directly affected asked a well-known scholar-monk, the Rev W. Vajiramedhi, for advice.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">His various dhamma talks on the topic given on different occasions were later compiled into a book, titled Kluen Nok, Kluen Nai (The Waves Without, The Waves Within). Many editions have been printed to give away as a dhamma dana (gift of dhamma) by various compassionate individuals and organisations. </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">Today, as the fateful date returns, many families and friends of the victims could not help but be reminded of the heartache when they learned that they just lost their loved ones.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">In Buddhism, every crisis is a learning opportunity. Under proper guidance, one can develop the technique to turn every crisis into a lasting wisdom that eventually leads to enlightenment itself.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">Since the book by the Rev W. Vajiramedhi was in Thai and is now out of print, the author would like to dedicate the space of today's column to summarise the gems of that wisdom as a befitting memorial to that tragic event.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">The sound advice that the Rev W. Vajiramedhi gave to the friends and families of the victims of the 2004 tsunami is as follows:</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify; font-weight: bold;">Accept the truth. The faster, the better</p><p style="text-align: justify; font-weight: bold;"><br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">Whenever crisis strikes, be it from natural disasters or man-made ones, find your inner strength through mindfulness so that you would be able to accept the truth as it is.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">According to the Rev W. Vajiramedhi, by accepting the truth, the mind would be able to restore its balance. The faster one can accept the truth, the faster one can move on with life. </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">On the other hand, the longer one lingers in suffering over the event that has passed, the more difficult it would be to regain a proper frame of mind. The bottom line is, those who are courageous enough to accept the truth up front would be able to think properly and know what needs to be done.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">In order to have the proper frame of mind to gain wisdom from a disaster, the Rev W. Vajiramedhi suggested that we should be open-minded. Merely observe without being judgmental. Do not criticise and try to find a scapegoat. The blame game, one must realise, does not get one out of suffering.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Familiarize Oneself with Life's Ultimate Truth</span> </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">This second step to gain wisdom from a disaster has a two-fold benefit. Not only one would gain wisdom from the disaster that just occurred, but one would also be prepared for future, unavoidable disasters as well.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">Life's ultimate truth is in fact very straightforward. And when one learns it when disaster has not struck yet, it would be easier for the mind to accept. Therefore, the Rev W. Vajiramedhi said it is important that we familiarise ourselves with them as soon as possible in life, so that the next time disaster strikes, we would be ready. Life's ultimate truth includes:</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">1) No one escapes ageing. In fact, the deteriorating process toward death starts at birth; 2) No one escapes illness and pain; 3) No one escapes death; 4) Losing loved ones and treasured possessions cannot be avoided; and 5) To each his/her own karma. No one escapes the Law of Karma.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">By realising this final truth alone, one would be able to refrain from the blame game that is nothing more than creating a new negative karmic cycle for oneself.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Learn to Live Fully in the Present</span> </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">Suffering only occurs when one's mind falls into the past or ventures in speculation into the future. Therefore, the ability to live fully in the present is a valuable life skill. The Rev W. Vajiramedhi suggested some practical methods as follows:</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">1) Keep oneself busy; 2) Build up one's concentration through prayer; 3) Learn meditation techniques; and 4) Learn how to face one's own death by practicing mindfulness of death, Maranassati.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mindfulness of Death</span> </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">In it simplest meaning, the practice of mindfulness of death is to be constantly aware that death can happen to us any second. In Lord Buddha's words, the mindful ones are those who realise that they might not survive even into the next breath. When practiced properly, mindfulness of death would: 1) sharpen one's mindfulness; 2) enable us to understand the true value of life; and 3) enable us to perform our duty without carelessness. Mindfulness of death can be practiced in every waking moment, the Rev W. Vajiramedhi said, even when stuck in traffic.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">There is one word of caution, though. As with any other mindfulness practice, it is best to be done under supervision of a veteran teacher.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">If mindfulness of death is practiced without proper understanding, it could yield: 1) fear of one's death; 2) depression, and/or 3) careless/mindless living (for mistakenly believing that death simply means one would no longer be able to do indulge).</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">At this point, the author would like to add that, beside monks, there was one social class in history that successfully practiced mindfulness of death. They were the Japanese feudal samurai. After turning to Zen during the Kamakura Period (1185-1333), the samurai actively practiced mindfulness of death to help enable them to see life in perspective and, in effect, help them deal with suffering. The list in Japanese history is long for the samurai who were able to face their death calmly, mindfully, either at the hand of the enemy or on their deathbed. This is doubtlessly due to their lifetime of practice of mindfulness of death.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Build One's Radar System for 'the Waves Within'</span> </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">The Rev W. Vajiramedhi observed in his book that, while countries spend millions setting up centres to detect possible disasters from tsunamis - or "the waves without" - no one seems to put equal efforts to detect "the waves within."</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">By "the waves within," the Rev W. Vajiramedhi meant the waves of anger, fear, disappointment, greed/lust, and ignorance. The ultimate advice for Buddhists is, therefore, to start building one's personal radar to watch out for the disasters within ourselves.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">At the end of the day, the ability to detect a disaster within from the minute it starts to ripple would be the key to ultimately shield us from any further suffering from the disasters without. Because such ability, arisen from continuous mindfulness practice, would eventually lead us to Enlightenment. Ultimately, we were affected by the tsunami because <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">we</span> were born. If there is no "us", there would be no suffering.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">The enlightenment, quite frankly, is the final answer.</p>nashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1129205467003129540.post-16550032806797517032008-12-24T12:04:00.003+07:002008-12-24T12:22:15.458+07:00A Year-Round Resolution<p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">New Year is coming and so is the time to reflect on 2008 and plan for 2009. Yes, it is the time we make yet another set of New Year's resolutions. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.bangkokpost.com/191208_Realtime/191208_Realtime24.jpg" height="250" width="189" /> </p><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Photo courtesy of the </em><a href="http://www.bangkokpost.com/leisure/leisurescoop/8371/a-year-round-resolution">Bangkok Post</a></div><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Making resolutions does not sound that complicated. But how about the success rate? If a 2007 UK-based survey is to be any indication, it is only 12%. This says a lot about us humans. As it is less than two weeks now before New Year arrives, how about some reflection on the tradition of the New Year's resolution itself? Is there a way to make it stick? </p><p style="text-align: justify;">First of all, let us take a brief look at history. When was this tradition started, and by whom? S urely it could not be a recent tradition that came together with the invention of the refillable, leather-covered yearly diary? </p><p style="text-align: justify;">When it comes to calendars, our top-of-mind recollection is likely to be about the Romans. And in fact some historians believe that the ancient Romans also invented New Year's resolutions in 153 BC. Many Romans looked for forgiveness from their enemies and also exchanged gifts before the beginning of each year. <em>(Source: <a href="http://www.blogger.com/ezinearticles.com/?The-History-of-New-Years-Resolutions&id=245213">ezinearticles.com/?The-History-of-New-Years-Resolutions&id=245213 </a>) </em> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Yet there are others who contend that New Year's resolutions date back even further, to the early Babylonians who started celebrating New Year 4,000 years ago. Their popular resolution? To return borrowed farm equipment. Sort of makes us wonder what the Babylonians and the Romans would think of our modern-day resolutions. According to a recent survey by the US government, the top resolution for contemporary Americans is to lose weight. <em>(Sources: <a href="http://www.usa.gov/Citizen/Topics/New-Years-Resolutions.shtml">http://www.usa.gov/Citizen/Topics/New-Years-Resolutions.shtml</a>; <a href="http://www.wilstar.com/%20holidays/newyear.htm">http://www.wilstar.com/ holidays/newyear.htm </a>) </em> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Unlike other noisy, exhausting and group-oriented activities to ring in New Year, resolution-making requires us to give quality time solely to ourselves, quietly examining our own life - what we have achieved so far and what our goals in the upcoming year should be. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">In other words, a time to make our New Year's resolution is a time when we stop our usual hustle-and-bustle and see life in perspective. Suddenly, it may occur to us that we still could not really grasp what the ultimate goal of our life is, or should be. Indeed, this is a crucial question that every responsible adult should make a point to ponder, whether during New Year's holidays or otherwise. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">What is it that we are living for? </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The path to the answer to that question is another story altogether, and subject to one's spiritual affiliation. For practicing Buddhists, we are in this world to strive diligently, with full effort, in every waking moment, to achieve the Ultimate Enlightenment. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">In the scriptures, there are many ways to describe this effort. One of them is to refer to the whole ordeal as the effort to create or make complete one's <em>Parami</em> (Baramee in Thai), or perfection. The Theravada tradition has 10 Parami in total, while the Mahayana's, known in Sanskrit as <em>Paramita</em>, has six. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Simply put, to create one's <em>Parami</em> is to cultivate certain virtues. Among the 10 <em>Parami</em> in the Theravada version, there is one that is related to the idea of New Year's resolution. It is <em>Adhitthana Parami</em> or the Perfection in Resolution.<br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>What are the Buddhist resolutions?<br /></strong></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong><br /></strong> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">But what is it that Buddhists should make resolutions about? The answer can be found in <em>Adhitthana Dhamma</em>, or the virtues that should be established in the mind. Here is the list of those Virtuous Resolutions that could help you refine your New Year's resolutions. They are 1) wisdom; 2) truthfulness; 3) renunciation; and 4) tranquility. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">To be specific, the scriptures suggest that one should make a resolution 1) not to neglect wisdom; 2) to safeguard truthfulness; 3) to foster generosity (by renouncing first one's worldly possessions and, later, one's mental defilements); and 4) to train oneself in tranquility. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">In this regard, the Romans' tradition to ask for forgiveness and to exchange gifts would fit nicely under the third category, while the Babylonians' vow to return farm equipment could be under the second. As for weight loss, well, the author is not sure. Can it fit under truthfulness? </p><p style="text-align: justify;">To be successful in one's <em>Adhitthana Parami</em>, the Perfection in Resolution, Buddhist teaching provides practical guidelines in the form of accompanying perfections. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">First and foremost, we must strive to attain <em>Sacca Parami</em>, the Perfection in Truth. This means we must have truthfulness in our thoughts, words and deeds. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The second perfection that would help we keep our resolutions is <em>Viriya Parami</em>, the Perfection in Effort. This is straightforward enough. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Third, <em>Upekkha Parami</em>, the Perfection in Equanimity. By equanimity, Lord Buddha means we should strive to achieve unshakeable freedom of mind, a state of inner poise that cannot be upset by gain and loss, honour and dishonour, praise and blame, pleasure and pain. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">And last, but by no means least, <em>Panna Parami</em>, the Perfection of Wisdom. The wisdom here refers to the wisdom that is based on the direct realization of the essence of Buddhism such as the Four Noble Truths, or the Law of Impermanence. It can also refer to skilfulness in staying true to one's resolution. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">For many of us, to strive for "perfection" does not seem to be a viable goal. Don't be discouraged yet. For there are many levels of <em>Parami</em>. This means if we make a point to strive to achieve at least the first level of any <em>Parami</em>, it is not beyond a human capacity to continue to make it to the top. Truthfulness, for example, is an everyday virtue that many people could perfect. And there are noble people all over the world who have proven that that could achieve just that. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Moreover, it is recognized that, for anyone who does not aim to become a full-fledged Buddha (self-enlightened with the ability to teach), the perfection of just a few <em>Parami</em> is enough to deliver us from suffering. In fact, Lord Buddha himself once said that "just the sheer merit of effort [<em>Viriya Parami</em>] alone, beings can transcend suffering". </p><p style="text-align: justify;">There you go. If keeping New Year's resolutions is a struggle, try self-empowerment through the various <em>Parami</em>. <strong>A resolution is not just a casual, wishful thinking about some loose goals, but a culmination of wisdom, truthfulness and renunciation in an unshakeable mind.</strong> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">You can also adapt a monastic approach of repeating one's vows everyday, at both the beginning of the day and at day's end, to remind yourself of your life's ultimate purpose. After all, <em>Adhitthana Parami</em> is not just for New Year, but is here to stay until we get enlightened, whether within this lifetime or otherwise. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Have fun making this year's resolutions - and, more importantly, keeping them!<br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Weight loss, anyone? </p>nashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1129205467003129540.post-15071114957034682332008-12-12T09:54:00.002+07:002008-12-12T09:59:48.610+07:00The Unaware Society<p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">"Why don't you write about nibbana (the Buddhist Enlightenment)?," a friend who is an English literature professor in a local university asked. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.bangkokpost.com/121208_Realtime/121208_real30.jpg" height="272" width="368" /> </p><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Photo coutesy of the <a href="http://www.bangkokpost.com/121208_Realtime/12Dec2008_real97.php">Bangkok Post</a></em></div><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">"It seems most Thais are not interested in the Enlightenment nowadays," she observed, before concluding: "They seem to think that it is not relevant to them." </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The author's friend has a point. Come to think about it, even the English-speaking world has chosen to adopt the Sanskrit spelling of the word for Buddhist Enlightenment rather than the Pali one. That is, we would likely see the reference to <em>nirvana </em>rather than <em>nibbana</em> in English-language publications. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">This by itself signals that our Mahayana friends, especially the Zen sect, whose scriptures were written in Sanskrit, have been quite successful in making it clear to the world that nirvana is their top priority.<br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>What We Could Learn from our Zen Friends</strong></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong><br /></strong> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The proof was clear in the teaching of Zen's earlier patriarchs, from Daruma, the Indian monk who made Zen popular in China, down to Huineng and Huairang. They talked repeatedly about the importance of training one's mind until one discovers the true "Buddha Nature" inside. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The Zen Patriachs also addressed the mass without discrimination, meaning it does not matter if one is a monk or a layperson. For, in a Zen teacher's mind, it is everyone's duty to strive hard to attain Enlightenment in this lifetime. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">After Zen made its way to Japan, the ever-productive and disciplined Japanese made sure that they found an effective way to infuse mindfulness, the practice through which one achieves Enlightenment, into everything they think, say and do. Many of the ancient arts and culture that survive until today are the testament to that admirable effort. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">In 1967, roughly eight centuries after Zen has been introduced to Japan, a world-famous Japanese writer, Yukio Mishima, came to Thailand to carry out research for one of his books, "The Temple of Dawn." Mishima did not find what he was looking for, a Theravada interpretation of consciousness and rebirth as taught to the general public. In fact, Mishima even remarked through the novel's fictional character, Mr Honda, that all he found in Thailand was the emphasis on <em>dana</em> (giving) and the stories of Lord Buddha's last 10 lives, <em>Jataka</em>. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">A little embarrassing, one must admit. Today, 41 years after Mishima's casual but truthful remark in that novel, little has changed in Thailand. If there is change of any sort, it does not become for the better. For the society seems to be more preoccupied in examining, with a magnifying glass, the various editions of the Hindu-inspired Jatukham amulets rather than being absorbed in learning how Lord Buddha attained his Enlightenment. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Even if there are more books on mindfulness practice now than there were 41 years ago, it still does not mean that the Thais have been actively practising it. At least not to the level the Japanese have. Perhaps we have to thank the late Mr Mishima for pointing out our weakness for us.<br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Why Most Thais are Not Interested in Enlightenment</strong></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong><br /></strong> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Let us try to answer Mr Mishima, and ourselves, why most Thais are not interested in the most important aspect, the <em>raison d'etre</em>, of Buddhism. One obvious argument is the fact that the Thai society has, for centuries, been blessed with agricultural abundance and relative peace. Compared to the centuries of civil wars and harsh natural disasters that Japan has had to endure, Thailand has not seen that much suffering. In addition, the Japanese's knack of keenly observing the changes in their four seasons also helps them to understand Buddhist Law of Impermanence better than us Thais who are surrounded by year-round evergreen trees. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The Chinese sages got it right when they say, "When one has not yet seen one's coffin, one does not shed tears." It is the complacency, a false sense of security, that made us Thai people feel that suffering is too far-flung a concept to think about in our everyday living. The ability to see suffering, or changes that lead to suffering, is the first trigger for one's quest for the Enlightenment. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Therefore, one could argue that the severe sufferings the ancient Japanese had to endure was a "blessing in disguise." </p><p style="text-align: justify;">For those who have not practised mindfulness and experienced the "trailer" of what Enlightenment could be, the attempt to understand nibbana is literal at best. And it is this literal approach that further alienates Buddhist Enlightenment from a layperson's everyday life.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /> </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>The Problem with our Literal Approach to Nibbana</strong></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong><br /></strong> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">First, it is a linguistic problem. We Thais, since our primary school years, were taught that Lord Buddha entered Maha Parinibbana (The Great Enlightenment) upon his death. Therefore, consciously or not, the word nibbana to the Thai ear usually rings in the image of death. Therefore, for those who did not have enough exposure to the essence of Buddhism, nibbana seems to be the stage that one can only enter after dying. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Needless to say, this misconception made nibbana something that no one wants to rush into. In fact, subconsciously, we may not even want to touch it with a ten-foot pole. <span style="font-style: italic;"> </span><strong><span style="font-style: italic;">Isn't it startling that the key message that Lord Buddha wanted to convey suddenly has become a taboo subject in Thailand?</span></strong><span style="font-style: italic;"> </span> Perhaps regrettable is a more appropriate word. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The late Ven Buddhadasa had done his best to correct this by educating us Thais that in fact nibbana is something that is attainable while we are still alive, and should be every Buddhist's goal. Even if we could not reach the Ultimate Enlightenment yet, the late Ven Buddhadasa kindly suggested, at least we should try to frequently experience the "mini-Enlightenment" in our everyday life. The way to achieve it, he pointed out, is through Vipassana (mindfulness) meditation. Very Zen-like teaching, if one may add. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Professor Saeng Jan-ngam, a respectable Buddhist scholar from Chiang Mai, gave us another reason why we Thais tend not to be enthusiastic about nibbana. In his book, Buddhasasanavidhya, Prof Saeng pointed out that ordinary people only understand ordinary pleasure, not knowing that there could be a far more profound state of happiness than the worldly ones. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">As a result, when they learn, through books, that nibbana does not have that kind of pleasure but offers a sustainable peace and happiness, they can not grasp the magnitude of its benefits and therefore do not see any appeal in trying to "reach somewhere" where none of the pleasure they know is available. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">More important, Prof Saeng pointed out, is our false attachment to the concept of "self." For the untrained mind, the idea of total riddance of the "self" does not seem to be the ideal stage to aim for. "How can I feel happiness," they would argue, "when myself does not exist?" </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Regrettably, it is this very misunderstanding of nibbana that gives a loophole for imposters to jump in and distort Lord Buddha's teaching by claiming that the "self" still exists in "the place called nibbana." This teaching is by far the most dangerous teaching around town these days, usually accompanying a request for a huge donation to "guarantee one's place in different levels of heavens."<br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Why we Thais should Attempt to Understand <em>Nibbana</em></strong></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong><em><br /></em></strong><em> </em> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Therefore, at the very least, the attempt to properly understand Buddhist Enlightenment would give us immunity from falling into the danger of false teaching. It would not only help prevent us from becoming financially bankrupt as some unfortunate victims were led into, but also from being morally corrupted as a result of following the wrong path. The path is only downward for those with a wrong understanding, Lord Buddha himself gravely warned. This means that even if we are not Enlightened in this life yet, at least we should try to prevent ourselves from falling into the wrong path, because what it entails is endless suffering. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Simply put, the society that does not put Enlightenment as one of its top priorities is an "unaware" society. We are unaware that we are living mindlessly. There is the sad story of a chicken that continues to run around even after its head has been cut off. Did the body know where it was going? Did the body even realize that it is already dead? Regrettably, it would be only a matter of moments before the body finally drops to the ground, contracting in a final spasm, eventually becoming still, completely dead. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">A painful analogue, we agree, but it could not be more apt to describe a Buddhist society that does not actively promote the practice of mindfulness so that its people can at least experience the "mini-Enlightenment", achieving the peace within, so that together they could generate the peace without. Blessed with the privilege of being in a Buddhist country, let us make the most out of it. Let each and every one of us shows the world that we know a thing or two about Buddhist Enlightenment. </p>nashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1129205467003129540.post-20392259883614229112008-12-09T18:36:00.002+07:002008-12-09T18:41:17.195+07:00The Day Buddha Died<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">It was a full-moon night in the 6th month of the lunar calendar. At 400 metres above sea level, the small town in the Gangetic plain was scorching during the day with temperature reaching the high 30s. There was no rain, despite the fact that it was in the middle of a monsoon season. </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;"><img src="http://www.bangkokpost.com/051208_Realtime/051208_realtime23.jpg" height="252" width="372" /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Photo courtesy of <a href="http://www.bangkokpost.com/051208_Realtime/05Dec2008_real012.php">Bangkok Post</a></span><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">At nightfall, there was a calm hush where 500 Enlightened men gathered just outside Kusinara. Summer night's wind breezed past sadly as if to say its final farewell. Around the men, sala trees wept their young, white petals on to the sandy soil that was moisturized by night dew. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">It was the day Lord Buddha would die. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Last words: Life's summary chapter </strong> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Fast forward to the 21st century. In bookstores and on websites all over the world, we see countless volumes of famous - and not-so-famous - people's last words. From the words uttered by someone about to be beheaded on a guillotine to whispers of dying leaders in the comfort of their deathbed. Chinese sages, Japanese feudal warriors, European philosophers, American writers; a startling number of people in history seemed to have wanted to say something before they departed. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">For most quotes that made it to print, they seem to share one thing in common. It is a summary of life's learning. It does not have to be dramatic, or poetic, for that matter. For real wisdom of life tends to present itself in its simplest form. When someone's time is running out, and they know it, it is more likely to be something that comes out in the spur of the moment, almost as an afterthought. Few, we may assume, would bother to edit the rhymes in those words. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Why are we drawn to read such words with great enthusiasm, then? Answers could vary. Many probably read out of curiosity, some might do just for the sheer entertainment factor. Yet, there are presumably others who are determined to learn something out of the people who passed, recognising the undeniable wisdom of life at the most crucial moment. For it goes without saying that, when facing our own death, we would be able to see life in its practical perspective. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>The importance of Lord Buddha's last words </strong> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Yet, while we take pleasure from reading the last words of people from all walks of life, trying to visualise what the person was like when they were living and theorising about their state of mind when they were about to go, has it ever occurred to us that we should pay special attention to the last words of the Enlightened One? </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Two thousand, five hundred and fifty-one years after that fateful day, with the advent of modern science, researchers interested in Lord Buddha's death seem to be more preoccupied with what exactly Lord Buddha ate in his last meal (was it pork or mushroom?), what exactly the illness that took his life was, or what materials were used in the cloth used to wrap his body. Less and less emphasis is put on the attempt to understand what Lord Buddha intentionally left behind as his last words. Even less is the attempt to live the life according to those last words. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Lord Buddha, after all, was a Great Teacher. Until today, he is our Spiritual Father, someone who decided to preach and help the rest of us out of suffering despite the realisation that it was not going to be easy on him. With a heart full of loving kindness, Lord Buddha sacrificed his whole life, spending every day and night teaching, sleeping only two hours a day. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Why so little rest? Maybe because he knew that he wouldn't be returning ever again in another rebirth. Yet there are so many suffered beings desperately seeking liberation. Therefore, it became his habit to turn every deed into a teaching opportunity. When he was in a forest, he used a handful of leaves to teach dhamma to the monks that were following him. When he was sitting by a river, he used floating logs as a metaphor. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Naturally, lying on his deathbed, Lord Buddha made sure he used the occasion to leave a lasting lesson. Once a teacher always a teacher, goes one saying. In fact, one can even argue that Lord Buddha's last words seem to sum up his entire teaching. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">What are they?<br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Understanding Lord Buddha's last words<br /></strong></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><blockquote> <p align="center">"...Vaya dhamma sankara, </p><p align="center">Appama dena sampadetha..." </p></blockquote> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">Literally, those Pali words mean "...All components are subject to decay, do accomplish all your duties with mindfulness..." </p><p style="text-align: justify;">In its literal sense, the words may not mean much to those unfamiliar with Buddhism or those who have yet to experience mindfulness practice. That is why most of us could not grasp its high value. But if you have practiced mindfulness, you would be truly moved by the last words deliberately uttered by a dying man who was lying modestly on Earth. He was talking to us, for our own benefits. For he knew that if anyone pays enough attention to the words uttered in the context of his death and act accordingly, they, too, would be able to bring themselves out of suffering. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Basically, Lord Buddha wanted to use his own deteriorating body as an educational medium, using the first half of his last words to reinforce his teaching on the Law of Impermanence. The latter half provides us with how we could get out of suffering - by practicing mindfulness in everything we do and also to give it a full effort so that one day we, too, will be fully liberated. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>In the context of the present situation in Thailand </strong> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Lord Buddha's last words are applicable to all types of suffering, not just for the ultimate big picture of getting ourselves out of this samsara. At the very basic level, if we diligently apply mindfulness in everything we think, say and do, we will be able to understand and conquer our everyday suffering. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">But if we still do not take heed of Lord Buddha's last words and neglect to make an attempt to at least understand what he meant by "mindfulness", then, his last words uttered out of loving kindness to us all would have been in vain. It would not be only the death of the historical Buddha, but also of the Buddha-nature inside each and everyone of us as well. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">When we fail to pay attention to our Spiritual Father's last words and act accordingly, do we still have the nerve to call ourselves Buddhists? Likewise, if we fail to listen to HM the King's constant reminder to us to be mindful and have loving kindness towards one another, do we still have the nerve to call ourselves Thai? Instead of paying attention to what colour HM the King is wearing today, isn't it better to try to understand what he repeatedly tries to say to us and act accordingly? </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Kusinara is now without Lord Buddha. The place where he died has become a gloomy archaeological site. It looks rundown and empty, except for occasional groups of tourists. There, the sala trees stood sadly under a scorching sun, quietly weeping, mourning the past that can never return. What should we do in response to our Spiritual Father's final reminder, then? By accomplishing our duties with mindfulness, of course. </p>nashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1129205467003129540.post-2641913028381647022008-12-04T16:42:00.002+07:002008-12-04T16:53:50.417+07:00The Noble Secret<p><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/4/4542984_34138829d0.jpg" height="319" width="425" /> </p> <p align="center"><em><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tsunamibooks/4542984/">Summer Garden</a> by </em><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tsunamibooks/">Pam from Tokyo</a></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">For eight days and seven nights last week, the author had the blissful opportunity to attend a mindfulness meditation retreat in the northern part of Thailand. May the readers have all the boon, merit, that the author did. May you all be happy, peaceful, and free from suffering. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Happiness, peace and freedom from suffering was indeed what was on our minds the minute we city dwellers stepped out of the calm, cool and serene retreat and back into the hustle and bustles of this world. Turning on our mobile phone for the first time in a week, we were greeted with news that made our hearts sink. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">It is true that mindfulness training is supposed to give us extra immunity to live in this increasingly hostile world. But, being unenlightened as we are, our spontaneous reaction was to turn back to the forest to continue our simple, blissful living among the embrace of nature. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>When Lord Buddha Chose Solitude</strong> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">This reminds the author of the time when Lord Buddha himself became weary of undisciplined monks while he was in residence at Kositaram temple in the city of Kosambi. The time was the 10th vassa (year) since Lord Buddha started his teaching. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Wanting to give the monk a lesson, Lord Buddha simply went into the forest to spend the three-month Buddhist Lent in solitude. This event of Lord Buddha's life is usually depicted by a painting or sculpture of him sitting with an elephant and a monkey at his feet. It was said that those animals were taking care of him throughout the Lent, with the elephant bringing a bamboo pipe filled with water and the monkey bringing honeycomb. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The story has it that, when Lord Buddha saw the kind consideration that the animals had shown to him, he decided to stay there in the forest with them, graciously accepting their alms. Indeed, who would not want to be among friendly creatures? </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Alternatively speaking, even Lord Buddha himself did not want to keep company with the unruly kind. On that day that we stepped out of our retreat and heard our national news, we thought we understood what Lord Buddha must have felt. The big difference, of course, is that we were not yet Enlightened and even if we chose to stay in the forest, it is unlikely that it would bring any awareness to the unruly people. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Lord Buddha's preference for solitude over undisciplined company is perhaps best summarised in the following Dhammapada the Path to Dhamma or versified Buddhist scripture: </p><div style="text-align: justify;"><blockquote> <p align="center">"If, as he fares, he finds no companion </p><p align="center">Who is better or equal, </p><p align="center">Let him firmly pursue his solitary career; </p><p align="center">There is no fellowship with the fool" </p><p align="center">(Source: <a href="http://larndham.net/dmbot/">http://larndham.net/dmbot/</a>) </p></blockquote> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">This teaching also goes hand in hand with another teaching in the 38 Mangala or the 38 Blissful Things, the first two of which are 1) not to associate with fools, 2) to associate with the wise. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Therefore, if any of our dear readers in Thailand feel weary at this point, may be it helps to keep these teachings in mind. Come to think of it, who would you rather be with? Someone who can remain calm amidst chaos, who are mindful and can provide you with sensible advice, or someone who wears you down with flames after flames or their hatred, blind greed, and/or anger? </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>An 8th-Century Buddhist Poet on Hatred and Enemies</strong> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">In the 8th century, there was an Indian Buddhist scholar with the name of Shantideva. He was credited with penning Bodhicaryavatara, or "A Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life." </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Basically, it is a long poem describing the process of Enlightenment from the first thought to full Buddhahood. As a result, sometimes it is referred to as "Entering the Path of Enlightenment." The book is still studied by Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhists today. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Unfortunately, an average Theravada Buddhist in Thailand may not have heard of Shantideva's beautiful, wise prose before. Shantideva covered many topics that a classical period poet usually did. In light of the current situation in Thailand, the author finds it most suitable to both introduce Shantideva's insightful verses on anger and destruction of one's enemies. </p><div style="text-align: justify;"><blockquote> <p align="center">"With the vast number of enemies, as boundless as the sky, </p><p align="center">what chance is there that all should be subdued? </p><p align="center">Yet when the thought of hatred is abolished, </p><p align="center">all enemies are destroyed" </p><p align="center">(Source: http://www.rinpoche.com ) </p></blockquote> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">Admittedly, the abolishment of the thought of hatred is not an easy task. But Shantideva also provided us with a starting point. When someone hurts you, instead of hitting back, how about doing the following: </p><div style="text-align: justify;"><blockquote> <p align="center">"All those who slight me to my face, </p><p align="center">Or do me any other evil, </p><p align="center">Even if they blame or slander me, </p><p align="center">May they attain the fortune of enlightenment!" </p><p align="center">(Source: <a href="http://www.gaia.com/">http://www.gaia.com</a>) </p></blockquote> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">Personally, the author finds it very classy. Indeed, there is nothing else that people who are burned by their own flames of hatred and anger need more than the fortune of getting Enlightened! </p><p style="text-align: justify;">But how could we translate this wise advice into action without further hurting the hateful, angry people? Shantideva also had an answer: </p><div style="text-align: justify;"><blockquote> <p align="center">"Whoever wishes to quickly afford protection </p><p align="center">to both himself and others </p><p align="center">Should practise that most noble secret: </p><p align="center">the exchanging of oneself for others" </p><p align="center">(Source: <a href="http://www.gaia.com/">http://www.gaia.com</a>) </p></blockquote> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">There you go, the noble secret according to Shantideva is the practice of losing yourself totally so that you can become one with the other party! Only by walking in their shoes, sustaining their suffering, that one's genuine compassion would arise. It is <strong><em>only through compassion and mutual understanding of each other's suffering</em></strong> that confronting parties would realize that we are all but fellow human beings struggling in the same suffering together. With that understanding, we would start to help each other out of suffering. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Although the result of such immediate transformation in the heat of turmoil is guaranteed to be extraordinary, actual practice can be demanding, especially if one is nowhere near the Bodhisattva level yet. If the thought of "we-becoming-them" as the path towards solution still sounds too horrifying for you, there is always a less strenuous approach. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">How about spending seven days in a peaceful retreat to cultivate our mindfulness first? After all, it is the starting point of such transformation plus a suffering-immunity vaccine blended into one. Who should go, then? Why, both parties in the conflict, of course! And, quite naturally, we the weary public. </p>nashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1129205467003129540.post-69780204461232866252008-11-23T22:56:00.005+07:002008-11-25T19:05:18.177+07:00One Voice: Obama's Change and Buddhist Self-Transformation<p>(As appeared in Bangkok Post, Friday, November 14, 2008, the first of a two-part series on Obama campaign from a Buddhist perspective)<br /></p><p><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3179/3053267986_cf24c2f6eb_o.jpg" height="268" width="399" /></p> <p style="font-style: italic;" align="center"><span style="font-size:100%;">Although he didn't say it, the real change that Obama was rallying for was the change of the people, by the people and for the people. <em>Photo from <a href="http://www.barackobama.com/">www.barackobama.com</a> </em></span></p> <p>The world has just emerged fresh from eagerly following Barack Obama’s historic campaign. Apparently, conventional wisdom believes Obama’s success is derived from his campaign’s key message --- change.</p> <p>This concept of change is no stranger to Buddhists. And because the Obama’s campaign has superbly provided us with a common reference point, this moment seems most ideal to explore “change” in light of something closer to home, that is, change in light of Buddhism while the Obama experience is still fresh in our mind. </p><p>Today’s installment is an inaugural article in a 2-part series on the Buddhist perspective on the Obama campaign. After this week’s discussion on this campaign’s fundamental theme, we would turn the table around and explore the Buddhist values we could see in Obama himself. </p><p>Yes, why not? After all, a transformational figure in the political circle is hard to come by anywhere in the world. So, please stay tuned for additional treat next week! </p><p><b>Not Just <i>Any </i>Changes, but Change with a Higher Purpose</b> </p><p>Before we discuss Buddhist’s concept of change, let us explore what the Obama camiagn has been advocating. Simply put, Obama portrayed himself as the agent of change. </p><p>At first glance, this positioning alone should provide a good momentum for the Obama campaign already, given the economic, social and political mess America got itself in. </p><p>Why, then, does it have to be “change we can believe in?” The Buddhist concept of change can provide an explanation. </p><p><b>Buddhist’s Implication of Change</b> </p><p>The concept of change in Buddhism is known as the Law of Impermanence. And it is best explained together with the truth about suffering. Let us first look around to see what kind of suffering the world is now facing and we will get the picture. </p><p>A quick way to get a grasp on the truth of suffering is to turn on a prime time’s news program. At any hour, there is always a breaking news on crisis: wars, terrors, riots, financial market collapsing or otherwise. Not all sufferings are man-made. Equally devastating are the natural disasters of all imaginable kinds: flood, hurricane, earthquake, wild fire, tsunami, etc.. </p><p>What those natural disasters and man-made crisis have in common is that they are all about changes, most of them sudden, which in turn bring suffering. </p><p>Even if it may not seem to bring immediate, physical suffering, change still has in it the air of uncertainty. This in itself brings anxiety and fear. In other words, at the very least, change brings mental suffering. </p><p>Therefore, it would not be an overstatement to say that, sub-consciously at least, we humans are wired to be afraid of changes because it does to bring suffering. </p><p>Unless of course it is a change deliberately enacted by ourselves for a higher purpose. </p><p>But what is <i>the change</i> that Obama felt that people could believe in? We’ll come back to that later. Let us first look at the type of change that people do not want to be in because this change for the worse is actually the catalyst for the drive towards change for the better. </p><p><strong>Change is inevitable, and is one with suffering</strong> </p><p>In Buddhism, change is more of a rule rather than exception. Even without someone announcing that he would bring change, change would still happen according to Buddhist view. This is because the Law of Impermanence says that all conditioned things will eventually ceased to exist. </p><p>To be specific, Lord Buddha once said, </p><blockquote> <p> </p><p>“…<i>Whatever is impermanent (anatta) is subject to change (anicca.) </i> </p><p><i></i> </p><p><i>Whatever is subject to change is subject to suffering (dukkha)…”</i></p></blockquote> <p> </p><p>Rather than focusing on what changes and why, Buddhism focuses on <i>how</i> we can best deal with changes that are, by nature, inevitable. Dealing with aging, sickness, death, and parting with loved ones are clear examples of the inevitable. </p><p>In fact, the core essence of Buddhist Enlightenment is nothing more than the true understanding of the nature of change. Why is that? </p><p>It is because change goes hand in hand with suffering. The understanding of the cause of suffering means we could refrain from causing any more suffering to ourselves. </p><p>For novice mindfulness practitioner, this means the end of suffering in the <i>now.</i> For those who have fully Enlightened, this understanding of the nature of change would liberate them of suffering forever. </p><p><strong>The Real Meaning behind Obama's Call for Change</strong> </p><p>Coming back to the “change” Obama talked about in his campaign, we will see that it parallels with the Buddhist idea of how one can liberate oneself out of suffering. If we pay close attention to Obama’s various speeches, we will see that the real change he is aiming for is not merely a change of policies. </p><p>Obama’s plan of policy changes is at best an instrument to get things done. Even the new policy itself is subject to change, too, as Obama made clear he wants to hear the feedback from the public so that he could always improvise his policy to make it serves the need of the people better. </p><p>This “hearing from the public” is the key to Obama’s message of change, the change that he said the American people could believe in. It is the change Obama <i>asked the public to make of</i> <i>themselves.</i> </p><p>Time and time again, Obama was asking for pubic co-operation and sacrifice. Basically he asked for an end to the blaming game, negative emotions and aggressive gestures that came with partisanship. Obama himself rose above that and he inspired the public to follow suits. “There is no liberal America nor conservative America, black America or white America, but only the United States of America.” </p><p>Moreover, Obama’s call for change is not just ideological. Obama presented a way to make it tangible by making an urgent call for social service and volunteerism in every sector. </p><p>In other words, the real change that Obama was rallying for was the change <i>of the people, by the people and for the people.</i> </p><p>It is the change that Obama knows people can believe in because it is a call for people to <i>believe in themselves!</i> </p><p><em></em> </p><blockquote> <p><em>"..</em>I'm asking you to believe. Not just in my ability to bring about real change in Washington....I am asking you to believe in yours..." (source: <a href="http://www.barackobama.com/">www.barackobama.com</a>)</p></blockquote> <p> </p><p><strong>One Voice</strong> </p><p>This is why the key essence of Obama’s call for change is similar to that of Buddhism measure to achieve the end of suffering. Like Obama’s vision, Buddhist’s change has to first start from an individual's faith within that he/she could bring about the change him/herself. </p><p>Moreover, Buddhism calls for selflessness and life-long service to others, with the aim of helping others out of suffering. Mahayana Buddhism in particular believes that it is only by devoting ourselves to help others that we would be liberated ourselves. Theravada Buddhism believes that it is only by striving to change ourselves<i> </i>to a higher moral plane that we could go on to transform the lives of others for the better. But, if we read between the lines, we will realize that these two approaches are in fact the same. </p><p>The same goes with Obama’s concept of change and that of Buddhism’s. They are both about changes that are founded upon powerful faith in humanity. </p><p>And this, dear readers, <i>is the change we should believe in</i>. Because, you guessed it, <i>Yes, We Can</i>!</p>nashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1129205467003129540.post-62261558748828808982008-11-23T12:30:00.006+07:002008-11-25T12:42:20.863+07:00The Mindful Candidate<p>(Bangkok Post's Real Time's Cover Story, November 21, 2008)<br /></p><p><img src="http://i.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2008/images/05/02/art.obama.headshot.jpg" height="284" width="423" /></p> <p align="center"><em>Photo from </em><a title="http://i.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2008/images/05/02/art.obama.headshot.jpg" href="http://i.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2008/images/05/02/art.obama.headshot.jpg"><em>http://i.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2008/images/05/02/art.obama.headshot.jpg</em></a></p> <p><strong>Obama's Campaign in Buddhist Light</strong> </p><p>It is my belief that Barack Obama's successful presidential campaign, which was based on the concept of "change we can believe in," and its underlying message are synonymous with Buddhist self-transformation. </p><p>In Buddhism, people who are transformed become selfless and dedicated to serving others. This is what many people felt when they watched the broadcast of Obama giving his somber, determined victory speech in Chicago on election night. </p><p><strong>Priceless Learning Opportunity, Politically or Otherwise</strong> </p><p>Something in the back of our minds said that we were witnessing history, and that we seemed to have arrived at the dawn of another chapter in a more principled humanity. In the candidate himself, there is a powerful lesson that we can learn from. It is not just for politicians who dream of running a successful campaign that results in a landslide victory; the lesson is equally valuable for the rest of us. </p><p>It would be ideal, though, if the world's politicians could learn the underlying message that Obama delivers, and the values that drove him and shaped his character. </p><p><strong>Why the World Paid So Much Attention?</strong> </p><p>As we now know, the global following of Obama's campaign was unprecedented. The American press attributed it to their country's position as the leader of the consumer economy: whatever America decides, the repercussions will be felt by the world. </p><p>This is straightforward enough. In fact, Lord Buddha also taught that every being and phenomenon in this world is interconnected, hence the need for us to always have good will and act accordingly towards one another for continuous peaceful co-existence. </p><p>But in addition to that, a Buddhist view offers another explanation for the Obama phenomenon; it was not merely the result of economic dependence on America. For those who believe that what are important in this world are power and money, we beg you to consider the following facts and think again, as there are more profound things that Obama offers. </p><p>Let us first admit, there was something else about Obama that we were drawn to. And it was not just his charisma or his inspired oratory. What <em>was</em> it? </p><p><strong>Mindful Candidate Always Stands out</strong> </p><p>Looking at Obama's historic campaign, what strikes us most is how consistently mindful this candidate has been. By mindfulness, Buddhism refers to the ability to be totally aware of the nature of things as they are, in the present moment, without pre-formed judgment or emotional partiality. </p><p>Obama, as we saw, was always able to remain calm and composed in any situation. He seemed to be able to always be mindful of his thoughts, his words and his deeds. At least he never lost his temper and showed hatred or anger like most politicians do in the midst of a tough political campaign. The only time he allowed himself to show his human side is only when he talked passionately about the well-being of his family. </p><p>Even when the political process got heated with the opponent's campaign throwing aggressive comments at him, Obama refused to retaliate in a similar manner. Repeatedly, he made it clear he would not take, in his own words, "the low road." </p><p><strong>Mindfulness Leads to Clean Politics</strong> </p><p>By being constantly mindful, Obama was able to look at issues objectively. The result is a proof that human beings feel more comfortable with objectivity than with mud-slinging, name-calling politics. For example, Obama preferred to refer to the current problems in his country as resulting from "failed policies" rather than "failed individuals." </p><p>This brings to mind a Christian saying, "<em>Hate the sin but love the sinner</em>." Buddhism has a similar teaching which encourages us to address mental defilements as separate, conquerable entities from beings, who, in fact, suffer from unknowingly harbouring such defilements. </p><p>Obama also went out of his way to show his constant respect for fellow human beings, even when he has been the target of disappointing or harmful words and actions by some of them. In other words, we know that he values forgiveness and unity because he actually practices them. </p><p>Accepting the congratulatory phone call from McCain, Obama was able to say, "I need your help. You are such a great leader in many areas." Obama also praised McCain for waging such a tough campaign, and he did not lie: McCain did deliver a tough campaign, which probably forced Obama to try harder to sharpen his own thinking, coming up with even more thoughtful measures to better serve the public. </p><p>McCain must have felt exactly the same. McCain's sincere, heartfelt and gracious concession speech on election night, despite more than a year of gruelling campaigning as a political foe, is a testament to how Obama's mindful leadership and humility won over McCain's tough, war-veteran heart. </p><p>The greatest test of a true leader is perhaps the ability to find positive traits of one's foe and the courage to graciously mention them in public. And that was what Obama did on election night, "(Senator McCain) fought long and hard in this campaign, and he's fought even longer and harder for the country he loves. He has endured sacrifices for America that most of us cannot begin to imagine. We are better off for the service rendered by this brave and selfless leader." </p><p><strong>Obama's Values in a Buddhist Perspective</strong> </p><p>Obama was able to achieve this formidable feat simply because he believed in the virtues and capability of every human. How could a politician achieve such an ethical mindset? </p><p>From a Buddhist point of view, it is because Obama has a firm grasp on the fundamentals of dhamma, the nature of things, as well as karma, the law of cause and effect of action. Obama himself stressed throughout his campaign that he himself was not perfect and that he expected to make mistakes as president. This is a fundamental understanding of human nature and of dhamma. </p><p>And how did he plan to address this common-man drawback? In Obama's own words: by being humble and listening to advice and criticism of others. "I will listen to you, especially when we disagree." </p><p>Humility, notably, is another admirable trait of this mindful candidate, stemming from his encompassing awareness of how things actually are. For example, in his victory speech, Obama appeared somber rather than self-satisfied, arrogant and triumphalist. He told the hyped-up Democrat crowd that they should accept this victory humbly, especially so because he simply followed the footsteps of one great Republican president, Abraham Lincoln. </p><p>That reference to Lincoln alone is enough to make people realize that what really matters is the shared humanitarian values and not antagonistic divisions along party lines. </p><p>Another important aspect we can learn from Obama's campaign is how he could inspire people. He could easily have taken advantage of the poor condition of the US economy to rev up the negative emotions of the crowd towards the current US administration, but he refused to do so. </p><p>Instead, he inspired people to sacrifice themselves, to do more together and for each other so that they all would be lifted out of this troubled time together, Democrats or otherwise. </p><p>This is the understanding of the law of karma. Everything in life is related to what we do now in the present moment. Lamenting and blaming each other for things past would not help us out of current suffering. </p><p>The American press also gave Obama lavish praise regarding his steadfast refusal to run a "negative campaign" against his opponents, even sometimes at his own cost. Lesson learned: mindful leaders who set their minds solely on the benefits of the people will sacrifice themselves and bravely sustain the low blows while continuing to hold on firmly, never losing sight of their original purpose. In short, it is selflessness. </p><p>Obama's call is not just idealistic, but an earnest call for action. By performing good deeds, good karma, together for society, Obama believes that good effects would naturally follow. </p><p><strong>What breeds mindful leaders? </strong> </p><p>How could a relatively young presidential candidate have so much wisdom on life? A wisdom, we may add, that is usually associated with respected old sages. Looking at his formative years through a Buddhist lens, we understand why. </p><p>Despite growing up with a loving family, Obama has experienced hardship first-hand. There were times when his mother had to rely on food stamps to feed the family. Obama himself recalled in a voice stirred with emotion how she had to spend the last few months of her life studying health insurance forms to make sure her medical expenses were covered. This is why the young Obama was so driven to provide affordable healthcare to all. </p><p>Hardship, or, in Buddhist terms, suffering, apparently drove Obama to strive to work hard in all areas for those who are less privileged. He could have had a bright career in prestigious law firms of his choice given his educational and professional experience, but he chose to go into politics because he wanted to work for the benefit of others rather than for himself. </p><p>In Buddhism, understanding suffering is the first requirement towards acquiring wisdom. Having goodwill to all and living life to serve others mindfully is integral to Buddhist Enlightenment. In Thailand, HM the King exemplifies such virtues. Elsewhere, Mahatma Gandhi comes to mind. </p><p>Want to have that kind of Obama-like leadership? It's not beyond our human capacity. To be able to achieve this level of maha sati, Great Mindfulness, Buddhism prescribes vipassana practice with a detailed step-by-step guidance for anyone who cares to learn. </p><p><strong>Mindful Leaders are Transformational Leaders </strong> </p><p>Academically, Obama's type of leadership is known as transformational leadership. It is when the leader and followers inspire each other to rise to a higher moral level by sacrificing themselves for society, for a cause higher than themselves. </p><p>In practice, transformational leaders are mindful people who transform themselves before going on to transform the life of others. By being constantly mindful, research shows that transformational leaders function better than other leadership models in time of change or crisis. </p><p>The author had the privilege of being at Harvard Law School at the same time as Barack Obama, although Obama was a year ahead and we were in different programmes. We might have occupied adjacent cubicles in the library or even taken the same international law classes together. Certainly, we went through similar "suffering" for a period of time. </p><p>Gruelling study aside, the author also recalled how classes were cancelled as students staged sit-in protests, demanding that a tenure position be given to an African-American female faculty. It was a cause Obama was known to support. </p><p>Although we do not have evidence if Obama indeed had some mindfulness training at Harvard Law, we do know that mindfulness meditation is now a regular fixture at the school. The initial workshop was so successful it has grown into a full-fledged programme called Harvard Negotiation Insight Initiative, aiming, among others, to train people to listen mindfully to others, which is doubtlessly the required basis of successful negotiations. </p><p>If a predominantly Christian country can incorporate this Buddhist wisdom into its top law school's curriculum and, in effect, producing great leaders, so can we. Yes, we can. (Sorry, couldn't resist it!) </p><p><strong>Wakeup Call for World Leaders </strong> </p><p>It may seem incredible that a person with such a humble beginning as Obama could have made it this far. Yet, when looking through the lens of Buddhism, it should not come as a surprise. This is a mindful and humble candidate with a deep understanding of dhamma running a thoughtful and honourable campaign, encouraging people to be selfless and join forces to create good karma for the purpose of lifting others out of suffering. </p><p>It is precisely because of this that people all over the world were drawn to this campaign. It is not only about the economy, but also because the human mind responds naturally to inspiring virtue. The world cannot have enough of transformational leaders. </p><p>Mindfulness, non-aggression, the understanding of true nature of things, recognition of the Buddha-nature in every human and tangible, action-based selflessness for the benefit of others, the campaign could not have been more Zen-like than this. </p><p><strong>What a Buddhist Country can Learn from an American President-Elect</strong> </p><p>As a Buddhist country, we should be happy to see mindfulness in action on a global scale, and Obama's embodiment of Buddhist values should be a powerful wakeup call to us. A mindful candidate can surely achieve great things for society. </p><p>This, inevitably, brings us to ask ourselves if this kind of clean, honorable campaign and mindful, selfless and focussed politician who enters politics to serve others is too much to ask for in a traditional Buddhist country like ours. </p><p>Where and how should we start? How about some wise words from Obama himself as quoted in Time magazine, </p><p>"We need to start over," he said, "speak gently, listen carefully, find solutions and keep our words." </p><p><img src="http://www.smh.com.au/ffximage/2008/04/14/clinton_obama_wideweb__470x350,0.jpg" height="311" width="417" /> </p><p align="center"><em>Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama participated in a Compassion Forum. <small>Photo: AP</small></em></p> <p>Mindful advice is always context-free. Surely, Obama's insightful advice on how to work with people in solving problems can be applied everywhere and anywhere, not just to the current American political and economical mess. The answer depends on how soon we could say, "Yes, we can!" </p><p>To make sure we reach that day sooner than later, perhaps it would help to at least mindfully refrain ourselves from the usual politics of, "No, we can't!" </p><p align="center">************************* </p><p align="left"><u>**Note**</u> After this article appeared in <em>The Bangkok Post</em>, a thoughtful American reader who has moved to Thailand who goes by the name, "<strong>thaiexodus</strong>," kindly shared a thoughtful Zen <em>koan </em>with the author via email. </p><p align="left">The gem of this wisdom is too valuable to be kept in private so the author has asked the permission to be shared with other readers. </p><p align="left">Co-incidently, there is a photo from the official web site of Barack Obama that seems to go well with the <em>koan</em>, so the author took the liberty to include it together as follows. </p><p align="left">Here is the <em>koan:</em></p><p align="left"><em><br /></em> </p><p align="left"><em></em> </p><blockquote> <p align="left"><em>"...All people are Buddhist, first and foremost, regardless of their professed religious beliefs..."</em></p><em> </em><p><em><br />"But Barack Obama is a Christian of the Protestant faith!"</em></p></blockquote><em> </em><blockquote><em> </em><p><em><br />"Is it not the Buddha nature which causes a person to seek, and to embrace a religious philosophy?"</em></p></blockquote> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3197/3052224142_a805707085_o.jpg" height="471" width="348" /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Photo from <a href="http://www.barackobama.com">www.barackobama.com</a></span><br /></p><p align="left"></p>nashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1129205467003129540.post-83168655696459585042008-11-07T09:45:00.007+07:002008-12-09T18:42:29.960+07:00Zen Mother Knows Best<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/28/38517726_62d95236ac.jpg" height="305" width="406" /> </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: center;"><em>The author, one-day old, in mother's arms</em></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">At the opening of Tiger Woods Learning Center in 2006, Bill Clinton commented that in the background of every great man is a boy who was terrified of his mother. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Well, may be "terrified" is too terrifying a word to describe the special and complex relationship between a great man and his mom, but I guess we all understand what the former president wanted to convey. Behind every great man, there is a mother who is very strict in disciplining her child. When they grow up and become successful, however, those men give all the credit to no one else but their disciplining mother. His Majesty the King and Gandhi are two such examples. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Today's article is an attempt to celebrate such mothers who have risked terrifying their children to make sure that their lot would grow up to become a hard-working person with integrity who dedicates one's life to serve others. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Admittedly, at first the author would like to keep this article for next year's Mother's Day. But life is so full of uncertainty, as the Law of Impermanence would remind us. There is nothing that guarantees that we would still be here tomorrow, let alone next Mother's Day. Therefore, let us pay tribute to our mothers as soon and as often as we can. Having said that, mom, this week's article is for you! </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-weight: bold;">The woman behind Ikkyu's Enlightenment </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Anybody who has been around since 1975 must have been more or less familiar with the cartoon series, Ikkyu-San. The series, based on a true story, enjoyed a tremendous success. A lot has been discussed about Ikkyu the young novice who went on to achieve Enlightenment, but very little has been said about his mother except how much the little Ikkyu was attached to her and how much influence she had on him. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Ikkyu was born in 1394 to Emperor Go-Komatsu and Iyono Tsubone, a court noble who was a descendant of the aristocratic Fujiwara clan. However, both mother and child were forced to leave the court to the countryside where Ikkyu went to stay at a local Zen temple at the tender age of five to begin his study. His mother also took up Zen practice seriously. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">We would have no idea how dedicated and successful Lady Tsubone was in her Zen training if we had not found the following piece of writing. It was her last testament to Ikkyu in the form of a letter. To the uninitiated, the letter may sound like what is popular known today as "tough love." In fact, those people are right. Zen "love" is almost always tough love, as exemplified in an apparently stern relationship between the Zen master and his/her disciples. The letter reads: </p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><blockquote style="font-style: italic;"><p style="text-align: justify;">"... To Ikkyu: </p><p style="text-align: justify;">I have finished my work in this life and am now returning into Eternity. I wish you to become a good student and to realize your Buddha-nature. You will know if I am in hell or whether I am always with you or not. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">If you become a man who realizes that the Buddha and his follower Bodhidharma are your own servants, you may leave off studying and work for humanity. The Buddha preached for 49 years and in all that time found it not necessary to speak one word. You ought to know why. But if you don't and yet wish to, avoid thinking fruitlessly. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Your Mother, </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Not born, not dead </p><p style="text-align: justify;">First day of the 9th month </p><p style="text-align: justify;">P.S. The teaching of Buddha was mainly for the purpose of enlightening others. If you are dependent on any of its methods, you are naught but an ignorant insect. There are 80,000 books on Buddhism and if you should read all of them and still not see your own nature, you will not understand even this letter. This is my will and testament..." </p><p style="text-align: justify;">(Source: http://www.ashidakim.com) </p></blockquote><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><p style="text-align: justify; font-weight: bold;">Understanding Ikkyu's mother's last words </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Even with absolutely no prior Zen training at all, one is already moved by the way a mother took the trouble to leave her caring, final words to her young son in order to make sure he grows up to be a decent man, achieve Enlightenment and serve others. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">If, like the author, the readers also identify with Ikkyu as someone who was first introduced to Buddhist mindfulness practice by one's own mother since childhood, this letter would certainly take on a much deeper meaning. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Recognized for its profound Zen message, the letter was included in a Zen Koan collection. A <span style="font-style: italic;">Koan</span> is a question, dialogue, or statement generally containing aspects that seems to be beyond rationality yet could be understood via intuition derived from Buddhist mental development. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Let us attempt to understand the meaning behind Lady Tsubone's last words together in a Zen-style question and answer. </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-weight: bold;">What does "returning to Eternity" means? </p><p style="text-align: justify;">It is the return to "nothingness," that is, to return to nature, to be one with nature. Being one with nature means there is no "self" which indicates the state of Enlightenment. </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-weight: bold;">Why comparing Lord Buddha to servants? </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The sentence likely refers to the stage when one practices Zen/mindfulness enough to realize that all human beings are but the same continuing process of nama and rupa interaction, with <span style="font-style: italic;">nama</span> being the psychological elements and <span style="font-style: italic;">rupa</span> being the physical elements. Lord Buddha once said that the level of metta, loving-kindness, he had towards his son Rahul and his arch enemy Devadatta are the same, meaning Lord Buddha saw both as beings that equally strive to be free from suffering. </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-weight: bold;">Why saying Lord Buddha found it not necessary to speak one word? </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Zen teaching believes that a dhamma transmission does not have to be verbal. Zen usually refers to the story of Lord Buddha lifting up one flower without saying a word (as a way to teach dhamma). Phra Maha Kassapa, considered the first Zen Patriarch, was the only one who understood as he smiled to that gesture. With that, the first Zen transmission was complete. </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-weight: bold;">Why one should avoid "thinking fruitlessly"? </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Thinking is one of the five enemies that prevent one to attain the continuous concentration required to develop the highest level of wisdom in Buddhism, <span style="font-style: italic;">Bhavanamayapanna</span>. </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-weight: bold;">What is "not born, not dead"? </p><p style="text-align: justify;">According to Bodhidharma, the Indian monk who went to China and made Zen popular, this indicates the state of Nirvana. </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-weight: bold;">What does "dependent on its methods" mean? </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Zen strips all practice methods as prescribed in the scripture to its core, zeroing in only on the state of being totally aware in the present moment. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Historical records did not indicate whether Ikkyu was actually "terrified" by his mother's last words, but history did record how successful Ikkyu later became in life. By not wanting to disappoint his strict mother (who, in her dying breath, sounded absolutely Zen-like in her wish for her son's spiritual development), Ikkyu went on to impose an even stricter discipline on his own Zen practice.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">While some people considered Ikkyu to be an eccentric monk towards the later part of his life, nobody disputed his satori, Enlightenment. He left quite a legacy, both in a written form and otherwise. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The ever-impermanent world calls for immediate action. Consequently, do not make your mother wait until her last moments before she could be assured that you will be doing fine because you have finally become spiritually mature. There is nothing a mother wants more than knowing that her child will be taken care of properly after she was gone. Get immediate mindfulness training in a retreat now before it is too late. Think of it as the most valuable gift you can give to your mother. It is special because only <span style="font-style: italic;">you</span> can give it to her. No one else could.<br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">P.S. I love you, mom! </p>nashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1129205467003129540.post-25728122291302626342008-11-04T23:24:00.002+07:002008-11-04T23:29:27.143+07:00Forgiving the Unforgiven<p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2281/2234204572_17f11c857c.jpg" height="291" width="413" /> </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/imkevinreallycmon/2234204572/">bird, like flying in the air</a> by </p><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/imkevinreallycmon/">Ireallyamkevin</a> </div><p style="text-align: justify;">It is undeniable that we humans have a deep yearning for peace. Yet, in this contemporary world, one does not seem to be able to get away from hatred and anger at all. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Simply turn on prime time news and hatred and anger would be staring at us in the face, be it from a national or global story. It is as if we are condemned to a life sentence in a maximum-security jail full of hatred and anger with no chance for parole. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The keyword here is "as if." </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Today the author would like to share with you, dear readers, three Zen stories that could perhaps enlighten us on the topic of forgiveness. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Forgiveness may be one of the most difficult acts of giving, but it is worth every effort to try. This is because, to continue on the prison-term analogy, we are but the prisoners of our own minds. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">If and only if we can forgive and let go of our anger and resentments, then and only then, will our life prison term would be lifted. Finally, we will be free. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>The Tao story of potatoes </strong> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The first story is from "The Tao of Forgiveness" by Derek Lim. Tao? Yes. Some scholars believe that Tao did influence Zen during the latter's formative years in China. Practitioners, however, came to realize that Tao is Zen and vice versa. Anyway, here is the story. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Once there was a sage who asked his disciples to carve out names of the people they cannot forgive on potatoes, one potato for each name. Then, the disciples were asked to put all their potatoes in a sack and carry it with them at all times for one week. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The longer time went by, the heavier the potatoes seemed to have become. To make the matter worse, those carved potatoes also started to rot and smells bad. It was such an unpleasant experience for the disciples. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">At the end of the week, the master asked, </p><p style="text-align: justify;">"So, what did you learn?" </p><p style="text-align: justify;">At once they disciples told the master that they now realized that holding on to grudges only brought negative things to them. Asked how they should go about correcting it, the youngsters said they should strive their best to forgive everyone that used to cross them and made them angry. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The master then asked, </p><p style="text-align: justify;">"What if someone crosses you again after you unload this present load of potatoes?" </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The disciples suddenly felt terrified at the thought of having to start all over again with new potatoes, week after week. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">"What can Tao do if there are still other people crossing us? We cannot control what other people do to us!" </p><p style="text-align: justify;">At which point the master replied, </p><p style="text-align: justify;">"We haven't even reached the Tao's realm yet. So far we only discussed the conventional way to approach forgiveness, that is, to strive to forgive. Striving is difficult. In Tao, there is no striving." </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Seeing the disciples completely at a loss then, the master further suggested, </p><p style="text-align: justify;">"If the negative feelings are the potatoes, what is the sack?" </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The disciples finally grasped it, </p><p style="text-align: justify;">"Ahh the sack is something that allows me to hold on to the negativity. It is my inflated sense of self-importance!" </p><p style="text-align: justify;">And that was the lesson of this story. Once we learn how to let go of the sack, whatever people say or do against us would no longer matter. The Tao of forgiveness is the conscious decision to get rid of the sack/self altogether, not just the potatoes/negative feelings. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Derek Lin concluded that, by recognizing that in fact there is no "self"' to be hurt, we could bypass the frustration arising from our constant striving to forgive others. This is because we were not angry with them to begin with! </p><p style="text-align: justify;">With the understanding of Tao/Zen, life suddenly becomes effortless, elegant, and natural. Get rid of the sack, and there will be no more rotten potatoes. Want to be able to get rid of your sack? Go to a retreat! </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>What Clinton learned from Mandela on forgiveness </strong> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The second story is a story told by Bill Clinton on what he learned from Nelson Mandela on forgiveness. In one meeting of the two men, Clinton asked, </p><p style="text-align: justify;">"I wonder what you must have felt towards your jailers when you were walking out of that prison after those 27 years. Weren't you angry at them?" </p><p style="text-align: justify;">"Yes, I was angry. And I was a little afraid," answered Mandela. "After all, I've not been free in so long." </p><p style="text-align: justify;">"But," he added, "when I felt that anger welling up inside me, I realized that if I continue to hate them after I got outside that gate, then they would still have me." </p><p style="text-align: justify;">With a smile, Mandela concluded, </p><p style="text-align: justify;">"I wanted to be free, so I let it go." </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Very Zen-like, Mr Mandela! </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Learning from a prisoner</strong> <strong>who practiced Zen</strong> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Mandela is not the only jailbird that knew the secret of forgiveness. The following is a story of a prisoner in Branchville Correctional Facility, Indiana, USA. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The man, known by his ordained name as brother Ananda Abhaya Karuna (he took ordination precepts as an inmate), found himself being able to forgive and achieve so much more in life through the practice of Zen Buddhism, most notably through Zen meditation. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Being a long-term prisoner, he said he has come to know anger intimately. The prisoners, according to brother Ananda, are conditioned to see themselves as unforgiven. In this frame of mind anger arises and there is a notion that forgiving others is a weakness. Society does not forgive, they reasoned. Why should they? </p><p style="text-align: justify;">One lesson that brother Ananda realized is that resentment is always about the past, but it takes place in the present. It also intensifies over time every time we relive that experience in our mind. To deal effectively with the anger present in the here and now about things and people that existed there and then, brother Ananda said we must examine and challenge the usual pattern of how our thoughts create anger in our mind. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Once realizing that we are merely punishing ourselves by continuing to fight imaginary enemies (thoughts of past events) in our mind, we would come to realize that the cause of such punishment is simply because we refused to forgive. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Like Mandela, brother Ananda discovered that when a prisoner does not let go of resentments and anger through the act of forgiveness, the prisoner becomes his own keeper. That, according to brother Ananda, is certainly one way of defining hell. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Liberate yourself from your personal captivity </strong> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Are you harbouring grudges over something or someone? Do you know anyone who does? Tell them it is time they free themselves from this unnecessary, self-created suffering. Learn to forgive those that you felt that you could never or should never be forgiven. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">How about starting with forgiving yourself? In light of Tao's potatoes story, it would be like killing two birds with one stone. By forgiving yourself, you begin to let go a little bit of that "self" that is known as the sack. Eventually, with all the sack gone, nobody can "put potatoes in" or irritate and hurt you anymore. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Your freedom, in fact, is just a breath away. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Fly, baby, fly! </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Remember, it always takes great courage to fly to freedom. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Until next week, let us stay mindful and forgiving! </p>nashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1129205467003129540.post-43249772106295592702008-10-25T21:39:00.003+07:002008-10-25T22:10:43.476+07:00Heed the Call of Nature<p style="text-align: justify;"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/56/171182088_3fa39d3336.jpg" align="left" height="286" width="427" /> </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dmmaus/171182088/">Wake me later</a> by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dmmaus/">dmmaus</a> </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Even in a more peaceful socio-political environment, city dwellers are likely to feel the need to get away from it all from time to time. This is because we humans are wired to be right at home among nature. Therefore, when the need to "get away from it all" rises, it simply means that our body and mind are sending us a signal that it is time to return to nature. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">This explains why people who try to get away from it all by simply shifting their attention to something else other than their daily routine such as by going to movies, or, worse yet, casinos, never feels refreshed or well-rested during their break from work. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">While spas are abundant in any cities nowadays, what humans really need goes well beyond some exotic body treatment. Even the brief sitting posture at the end of a yoga session in your spa visit can not bring forth the sustainable peace born out of wisdom that our mind desperately needs. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">What we need is a complete treatment of body and mind that goes far beyond relaxation and rest. Ironically, many holiday-makers, adult and children alike, do not realise that they are not "getting away from it all" at all. Rather, they simply change the place of doing their regular activities. Think about long driving, eating, checking emails or surfing the web on the notebook or phone they brought along, or watching movies on portable DVD players and, for children, playing electronic games. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Considering this, those who opt for a hike or trekking in the wilderness would probably get more rest out of their adventurous activities. The secret is, it is the mind that tells us if we feel relaxed or well-rested. Although, at face value, those hikers' choice of getaway may seems a bit harsh such as sleeping in a tent in a forest, they are the ones that emerge more satisfied from their wholesome holiday. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Even when the trekkers' only "entertainment"consists of trekking along a bubbling creek, listening to various soothing sounds of nature, breathing in fresh air, or taking a plunge in a tiny, virgin pond at the end of a hidden waterfall, they would have sworn that it beats the superficial, temporary pleasure derived from being glued to any electronic devices any day. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">If electronic devices need a recharge of battery, so do we. We need to come out of our holiday refreshed and brimmed with positive energy to take on the various responsibilities in our life. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">There will be times for all of us when simply going away to a popular commercial resort would not do the trick to make we feel completely relaxed. While it is true that the body gets fresher air, exercise, or enough sleep, the mind still continues its usual day-long workload. Even if those people argue that they really rest their mind by "not thinking of anything", they would be surprised to find it is quite the opposite from what they think. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Unless the mind is trained in mindfulness technique, we would never realise that it is the nature of the mind to work non-stop. Without mindfulness technique, we would not be able to detect how thoughts come about and go. More importantly, we would never realise that thoughts are the number one cause of exhaustion and suffering in our life. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">In fact, those who can achieve the mental power of being able to rid themselves of thoughts, completely and at will, are the Enlightened ones only. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">If it is the nature of the mind to work non-stop, how best could we put the mind to work for us so that we could achieve the much-needed rest? </p><p style="text-align: justify;">The answer is: we all need a mindfulness meditation retreat among nature to be able to tame our thoughts and train our mind to simple relaxation techniques that we can continue to use throughout our life, during holiday or otherwise. Mindfulness is a practice so complete that it would open your eyes to the nature of things, no pun intended. This very wisdom would in turn create a sustainable peace for both the body and mind. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">When the mind relaxes, the body would also be free of stress. And, even if the body is in trauma such as grave illness, if you know mindfulness technique, you would not be disturbed by the physical discomfort. This explains why many people can smile through their intense pain calmly. This, dear readers, is the skill we need when we would finally be staring death in the eyes. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">While it is true that there are many urban centers offering mindfulness courses all year long, it can never measure up to a practice among nature. First, imagine a mass retreat with 400-600 participants around you in a large air-conditioned hall in a city building where all kind of worldly chats erupts during breaks or when you are back to the room you share with others to try to get some rest. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Now, imagine a smaller group, perhaps one-tenth of that urban class if not less, practicing quietly in a pavilion among a little forest and a pond where various types of fish swimming leisurely among the lotus bloom. Imagine the tranquil time you can get intimate with nature, free from any disturbs of others due to the strict and effective reinforcement of the "noble silence" rule. Now, you get the picture. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">It is not that you should say goodbye forever to your yoga or tai chi classes or the usual aerobics type of exercise such as running or swimming. Those exercises do promote health which is the foundation of everything in life, mindfulness practice included. But, as we discussed earlier, the body is only a part of the whole equation. In fact, it is the smaller part. Once you know how to give the mind the attention it deserves, you would never feel deprived of total relaxation again. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">If the incentives for going to a mindfulness meditation retreat among nature are not enough to convince you to do it for your own sake, think of it as you are doing a great service for the society. Mindful citizens are ideal citizens, as Lord Buddha would have confirmed to you. And, looking at the socio-political-economic environment of Thailand at the moment, we need mindful people now more than ever. Think of it as killing two birds with one stone - you get the total relaxation you need, the country gets sustainable peace. Not bad, isn't it? After all, peace starts with the mind. Yours, that is. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Until next week, let us stay mindful. </p>nashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1129205467003129540.post-66854844442046571342008-10-21T11:19:00.004+07:002008-10-28T17:29:37.312+07:00Value-Add Your Walk<p><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/54/149189348_34da72fe48.jpg" height="284" width="415" /> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/19915916@N00/149189348/">Bamboo Forest</a> by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/19915916@N00/">wmchuu</a></p> <p align="left">Last week we introduced the idea that most of us tend to take walking for granted. This, in turn, led to our going about in our daily life in a semi-autopilot mode.</p> <p>We also started to explore the concept of mindful walking and ended with a brief introduction on how to try it at home. </p><p>If you indeed tried it for the first time out of curiosity, chances are that you probably found it confusing. Not because walking meditation is a confusing act <i>per se,</i> but because you may have found yourself wondering aloud, countless times, “What could be the benefits of this mindful walking?” </p><p>In other words, your mind was probably sending out a signal that it needs a clearer incentive of this activity. Otherwise, it finds no reasons to bother, let alone incorporating it in your daily living. </p><p><b>Benefits of Mindful Walking</b> </p><p>If you are one of those doubters, you are certainly not alone. Having observed many novice practitioners, the author found that walking meditation did not get as much attention as sitting meditation because practitioners are not aware of the immediate and short-term benefits that walking meditation can give. </p><p>The need for immediate benefit is totally understandable given the fact that we are living in the age of distractions and shorter-span concentration (as exemplified in the quick-cutting shots we often see on MTV and the likes). The good news is, contrary to popular belief, there are immediate benefits of a mindful walk. </p><p>First of all, it starts with how we experience suffering. Buddhism explains that suffering occurs when our mind wanders into the past or the future. Neither a period five minutes ago nor one second ahead is the same as the very present moment. </p><p>Walking, obviously, is one of the most accommodating activities to help ground our mindfulness right into the very present moment, especially for new practitioners. With each noting of, “left, right, left, right (if you are walking fast),” or “lifting, extending, placing down,” we have something physical to firmly anchor our mind on and so many different details of noting (hot/cold, hard/soft, etc.) to help keeping our mind alert. </p><p>As a result, the immediate benefit of mindful walking is that it helps prevent our mind to fall into the usual traps of suffering, one that is caused by our mind dropping into the past or wandering into the future. </p><p>In a retreat, most often than not, our teachers would ask us to “slow down” in our walk. Initially, this almost always caused frustrations to city dwellers who are used to life in the fast lane. Be careful: slow, mindful walking is not the same as a lazy stroll on the beach that we tend to do mindlessly. While mindful walking is definitely slow, it is deliberate. Each step is performed with a clear purpose. The mental noting has to match precisely with the moment the action takes place as well. And this requires a lot of effort. </p><p>By slowing down, to the point of a complete stop in each step in some retreat, we would be able to feel, intuitively, that our life is nothing but a series of separate events, not unlike different static frames of a movie, one after another. This is the first step of our understanding of the Law of Impermanence. </p><p>On the side, we also learn that there is a “pause button” that we can actually activate in our life, at least for the purpose of slowing things down. You will also realize that, by slowing things down, you would be able to “see” and understand things much better. It is this ability to understand life better that is the true wisdom of mindfulness. </p><p>If discovering life’s true wisdom sounds a bit too far-fetched, at least consider mindful walking just for its practical benefits. Here are some of them as explained by Lord Buddha himself. </p><p><b>Lord Buddha on Walking Meditation’s Practical Benefits</b> </p><p>1) <i>People who regularly do walking meditation will have more stamina in long journey.</i> This is not merely body-toning exercise, but mental training as well. We all need this kind of stamina not only for a long journey, but for many strategic and serious events in our life. And don’t you agree that life itself is a long journey? </p><p><i>2) Walking meditation brings stamina to sitting meditation. </i>Those who have been practicing sitting meditation would understand the kind of stamina required for each sitting. There is no better way to boost up one’s stamina by having a walking session before sitting. </p><p><i>3) A balance of walking and sitting promotes good circulation and revives muscles. </i>We all know that the shift of posture and the movements of walking revive the muscles and stimulate circulation, helping prevent illness. This applies to urbanites like us also who may have spent too much of our time sitting unhealthily in our cubicle at work. Next time you take a walking break, try incorporate mindfulness into it as well! </p><p><i>4) Walking meditation a</i><i>ssists digestion and prevents drowsiness. </i>Indigestion is definitely one important enemy not only to meditation practitioners but also to anyone of us who have to sit for a long time in one stretch, either at work or during commuting. The same goes for prevention of drowsiness. Woes to them who were caught dozing off at work!<i> </i> </p><p><i>5) Walking meditation helps build continuous concentration needed to gain insight. </i>The keyword here is <i>continuity.</i> To unlock the true nature of things by mindfulness practice, we need a strong, <i>continuous </i>concentration. Every step of continued walking meditation contributes directly to your potential in gaining insight. </p><p><b>Mindful Walking in Your Daily Life: Tips and Technique</b> </p><p>If you are intrigued by the idea of adding a dose of mindful walking into your daily life but somehow feel discouraged by the initial experience following last week’s article, don’t give up your hope just yet. Here are a few tips. </p><p>1) <i>Start small.</i> Pick the shortest distance that you have to go from point A to point B in your daily routine and starts from there. How about the first walk of the day, namely from your bed when you wake up to your bathroom? Repeat again at bed time as you walk to bed. It would become easier day by day. </p><p>2) <i>Daily exercise.</i> If you already exercise by brisk walking everyday, try turning off that iPod and tuning in your own body and mind. Note both your body movement and how your mind reacts to sensorial perception. Catch your thought as it is forming, note it, and let go. Then go back to the movement of your feet. If you are walking among nature, note any phenomena that come into contact with your sensorial perception, too, but do not dwell on any. </p><p>3) <i>Disliked paths. </i>When you are “forced” to walk the path that you do not like, either because it is boring, lengthy or otherwise, use mindful walking technique to manage that suffering. Bonus point: if you can maintain your concentration over a certain period, you could even derive pleasure from that otherwise boring walk. But that is just a negligible by-product of your path towards wisdom where happiness is certainly more sustainable than momentarily pleasure. </p><p>What would be your first mindful walking? </p>nashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1129205467003129540.post-11803916663525759312008-10-21T10:41:00.002+07:002008-10-21T10:55:01.202+07:00A Walk Like No Other<p></p> <p><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2176/2370768914_4ec1424c96.jpg" width="428" height="471" /> </p><p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24443965@N08/2370768914/" target="_blank">Monk Descending Temple Steps</a> by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24443965@N08/">Okinawa Soba</a> </p><p>When was the last time you learned how to walk? </p><p>If this question prompts you to sit back and try to recall, chances are that it was when you were a toddler. </p><p>Of course, there are exceptions. Those of us who were unfortunate enough to sustain knee or leg injuries, the author included, may recall a more recent training during recuperation period. </p><p>Either case, learning how to walk is never easy. But once we think we have mastered it, we tend to take it for granted. That is, as we go about doing things in a typical day in our life, we tend to shift ourselves into an “auto-pilot” mode whenever we walk. </p><p>Not that we do not recognize the benefits of walking. In every culture there are ancient proverbs related to a good walk. An Arab proverb says, “After lunch, rest. After dinner, walk a mile.” The Roman says, “If you can’t solve a problem, go take a walk.” </p><p>In our contemporary living, dog owners know that they have to do their canine friends a favor by walking them. But, isn’t it a bit ironic that, while we consciously take our dogs out for a walk everyday, we never quite did the same thing with our own mind? Your mind needs the exercise that a good walk can provide, too. </p><p>“Wait,” you may ask, “Doesn’t our mind automatically get the workout it needs if we make sure we get some physical exercise?” </p><p>Well, not exactly. While it is true scientifically that the right amount of aerobics exercise could trigger the release of some happiness-inducing hormone in our brain, it is only just a part of the whole equation. For the vigilant, it is not too difficult to realize that this kind of “high” is something that is very short-lived. </p><p>The kind of mental exercise we really need is one whose benefits would remain with us for life. And, yes, it can be cultivated from a good walk. </p><p>At this point, the author could not help but think about a book by the late Ven. Buddhadasa, titled, “Handbook for Mankind.” </p><p>The title of his book reminds us that, unlike gadgets, we did not come into this world in a neat box, complete with “owner’s manual.” Admittedly, we could learn how to survive, more or less, by trials-and-errors. But if you really want to go for the really “good stuff,” you need some guidelines. </p><p>The author used to read somewhere that today’s computer games also have hidden gimmicks or secret functions that only people with the proper code could unlock and enjoy. The same can be said of our body and mind. If we learn how to unlock the code, we would be able to access the hidden treasures that are already there, waiting for us to retrieve. In other words, we already walk around with them, but we do not know how to access and make use of them. </p><p>Don’t pull all your hairs off in frustration just yet. For you, too, could learn how unlock the code. Today, we would try to access our built-in, hidden treasure by learning how to walk mindfully. </p><p>The first thing you need for a session of walking meditation is not the space, but a ready mind. Unlike common walk that you do everyday in your auto-pilot mode, mindful walking requires a passion from within. It has to start with your desire to walk this walk. Look into your mind and find it. </p><p>In some meditation retreat, they may recommend you to say “desire to walk” in your mind prior to actual walking. The purpose of this mental exercise is to familiarize you with how your body and mind work in a cause-and-effect process. Note that we are not using “I” as in “<i>I </i>want to walk.” The idea is that you are just an observer of what happens to the body and mind in your present. Let your “knowing mind” observes and feels your own physical and mental action as if it is watching a stranger from outside. Once your mind understands how this cause-and –effect works, this mental narration can stop. </p><p>You might notice right here at the very first step that, with a ready mind, a mind that is brimmed with purpose, there seems to be an inner energy that is ready to “drive” you through the task at hand. This is a very handy skill in itself. Try setting aside a moment of quiet contemplation to prep up your mind before embarking on any task and see the difference. </p><p>Initially, it is better to cover a very short distance, preferably in the tranquility of your bedroom, living room or garden. Select a clutter-free path where you could walk a few metres, stop, and turn back. While the ultimate goal is that you should be able to do mindful walking everywhere and anywhere you go, the first stage still has to be limited, just like when you were a toddler. </p><p>Start by your standing posture. Be comfortably relaxed and aware of how you stand. Exhale deeply. Notice how your body (and/or mind) changes during and after you exhaled. Do not need to rush or force your breathing. Just continue your regular rhythm for a breath or two and look into your mind for a desire to walk. Once you have located it, note it, and let go. </p><p>Then, move your mind as if it is an x-ray machine to your right foot. Don’t look down. Use your feeling only, but intently. Note how your sole touches the floor/grass. Does it feel hot or cold? Is the surface soft or hard? Then, mindfully lift your right foot up while note “up” in your mind. Hold it in the air for a fraction of a second to <i>really feel</i> how your foot is like up in the air. After that brief, mid-air suspension, bring the foot down to complete your step and note “down.” Note your foot’s movement through the moment of impact. Note the changes in the feeling of your foot as your body shifts your weight forward. Note everything. Note it as it is, in that particular moment only. Don’t use your imagination or try to be creative here. Just observe. </p><p>Do not continue the next step yet. Pause again for that nano-second to shift your mind to you left foot. Then, repeat the process. Try to keep your feet and body relaxed. Be natural, but deliberately slow. </p><p>Frustrating, isn’t it? Note that frustration in your mind, and let go. Wonder why you have to go through all these troubles? Note the doubt and let go. Finding that your mind wandering out to the kitchen, or to a favorite TV program? Note the thought and let go. Once you reach the end of your pre-designated path. Consciously tell yourself you want to stop before you actually stop. </p><p>Don’t turn back abruptly. Make an attempt to consciously stand still there first to note how your body is. Use your mind as if it is an MRI machine to scan your body from your head till toe, then back again to head. Repeat at least 3 times. If you find it difficult to concentrate, pair up your “mental scanning” with your breathing rhythm. Then, and only then, tell yourself you want to turn and slowly turn back, one step after another, until you face the other direction. Then, repeat the process again by finding the desire to walk in your mind. </p><p>Do not punish yourself in your first walk. Just go for a few laps. You may find that these are the most exhausting steps you have ever taken in your life. Well, probably the most exhausting since you were 11 months’ old! “<i>Where are the benefits?</i>…,” your mind may scream. Note that impatience, too, and let go. Continue this mindful walking experiment once a day for a week. Up next, the benefits of mindful walking, how to successfully incorporate it in your daily life, and how you can use it to advance your overall meditation training. </p><p>Hey, we were not saying your first mindful walking experiment would be <i>fun.</i> The title said, “A Walk Like No Other.” Now, it is up to you to discover what “like no other” means! All it takes is your ready mind!</p>nashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1129205467003129540.post-91571215822192868172008-10-09T10:18:00.003+07:002008-10-09T10:35:59.029+07:00Destiny in Your Hand<p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: center;"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/26/44250848_12c5bd449c.jpg" /></p><h1 style="font-weight: normal; text-align: center;font-family:trebuchet ms;" id="title_div44250848" property="dc:title"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kankan/44250848/">筆と筆巻き</a> by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/kankan/">Kanko</a></span><br /></span></h1><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;"> </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: center;">As appeared in BKK Post, Friday, Oct 3, 2008 </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;">It is Friday again and perhaps everyone's mind has already gone away for the weekend, far from the usual daily hustle and bustle. </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;">Weekends, for working people at least, seem to be the only time that we normally devote to being connected with nature and with people close to us. It is time set aside to revitalise, to regain balance of body and mind, and to regain our sanity. </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;">But, incredible though it may be, the very mundane, work-related activities we try so much to get away from could also deliver us similar benefits. </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;">Take writing, for an example. It would not be too out of question to assume that we all have to engage in a written communication of some kind in our work. But, wait a minute. Written? Does anybody still write these days? Actual writing that involves a hand holding a writing instrument, scribbling on a piece of paper, that is. </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;">In every culture there are moving tales of historic letters, diaries, memoirs, and even handwritten copies of literature. Surely we all must have pored over exhibits of that nature in museums all over the world, mesmerised not only by their contents, but also by the sheer humanity in the production of it all. </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;">Many great leaders of the past are usually known for their passion for writing. Napoleon Bonaparte (1769-1821), top general and Emperor of France, had sent at least 33,000 letters during his lifetime. Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1537-1598), Japan's leading general who, later, like Napoleon, also became the country's de facto ruler, was known to have left tens of thousands of letters and other writings. </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;">Even without seeing the original manuscripts, we could sense the power of these leaders' characters just by looking at the words they use. Napoleon used to write to inform the wife of a fallen soldier personally. Excerpts: "It is a dreadful moment when we are parted from the one we love. It shuts us off from the world. The body is convulsed with pain, and the faculties of the mind so overwhelmed that all its contacts with reality are cut off by a distorting dream." </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;">Hideyoshi, whose literacy were much less fluent than Napoleon due to his humbler childhood, also tried his best and sent a handwritten sympathy note to a woman who lost both her son and grandson in a military campaign. Excerpts: "I would never presume to fathom the immeasurable grief you must feel at the simultaneous loss of your son and grandson. But from now on, I would be honoured if you would consider me, Hideyoshi, as your second son, however unworthy of that role I might be." </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;">It is this very caring and sympathetic characteristic to their people that made these men the leaders they were. But beneath this obvious leadership quality, their writing reveals their humble side that is no different from ours - the ability to feel deep pain of self and that of others. </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;">Besides the hand-to-hand thus heart-to-heart intimacy, handwritten material is valuable because it reminds us of the effort, patience, and concentration the author had to put into it. Many period movies have made a scene out of characters who, while trying to put their thoughts down by writing, kept crumbling up one piece of paper after another and throwing it away in distress. </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;">Metaphorically speaking, by going through such experience ourselves, we would be reminded that, real life has no delete button nor cut and paste function. If we are not mindful enough in every stroke, we could create a mess out of ourselves. </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;">Here is the very opportunity to rise above your normal self and approach life as a leader you have the potential to be. The conventional wisdom that we already know is that we should strive to write to people by hand occasionally to make them realise how much we value them. But here is a new twist - do write often to get to know yourself, to gain peace of mind, to acquire wisdom, and, seriously, to create your destiny! </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;">The highly revered late Phra Acharn Chah was credited with the following most memorable lines: </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: center;">"Watch your thoughts, for they become words. </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: center;">Watch your words, for they become actions. </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: center;">Watch your actions, for they become habits. </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: center;">Watch your habits, for they become character. </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: center;">Watch your character, for it becomes your destiny."<br /></p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;">Writing by hand is probably one of the most mindful activities that we can have in our daily life. To create a meaningful message that also looks neat and pleasant, one needs to be mindful of both one's body and mind. Frankly, what activity could better let us have a clear penetration into our own thoughts than writing? </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;">The smooth, rhythmic movement of writing itself serves as a very convenient tool for both types of meditative exercise: concentration and mindfulness. Try using different writing instruments and different kinds of writing surfaces and feel the difference it can cause to your mind. Go slow. Pause between sentences and look into your mind to contemplate what you really want to convey. Put down the pen/pencil/brush if need be and give yourself a long, complete, relaxed exhalation. Pick up the pen again only when your mind is ready. Try the long exhalation again before you begin writing. </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;">You would probably be surprised that, by slowing down, not only you will have an opportunity to learn more about yourself and how your mind works, you will also be able to hold your initial anger or negative thinking in check. One reason we see so many angry messages on many web forums is because modern technology enables us to lash out the initial wave of negative thoughts at lightning speed without having the necessary time to contemplate our mind and thus restrain our behaviour. And, as we all know, it is only that very initial wave that is usually fatal. It is not just a wave, it is a furious, unforgiving tsunami! Don't let that initial wave swallow you up. </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;">Imagine if those angry posters have to do it the old-fashioned Chinese/Japanese way - rubbing the ink stick on the ink stone, adding water, adjusting the ink's consistency, dipping the brush into the ink well, wiping excess ink on a piece of cloth, writing a few characters, then back to dipping, etc. Do you think there could be that many lengthy flamed messages on just about any topics on the internet? </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;">Quite obviously, the comfort of the backspace and delete buttons as well as the cut-and-paste function has replaced the original purpose of deliberate, personal penmanship. It makes us forget how we as humans in our purest, simplest, truest form are supposed to be - capable of mistakes. </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;">Therefore, let us put humanity back into our daily life by practicing more penmanship, and, in turn, mindfulness, for the benefits of all. Next time you whip out that post-it note, be mindful and put your heart into it. The person who receives it could feel it, whatever was in your mind. For those who do not have much opportunity to write to others, try keeping a diary. Running out of what to write? Copy your favourite prayer, poems, or other inspirational literature. Don't feel overwhelmed by the illusion that you have to write pages. Even a single line of anything that means something to you could be powerful if you really put your mind to it. </p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; text-align: justify;">Like Phra Acharn Chah said, it all starts with your thoughts, which then translates into your words and your action. Before long, your writing would bring forth your chosen destiny. And, frankly, who would not want to take destiny in their own hands? </p>nashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1129205467003129540.post-64142580109091276032008-09-26T10:24:00.003+07:002008-10-09T10:29:17.400+07:00On Zen and Sense<p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;"></p><div style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"> </div><p style="text-align: center; font-family: trebuchet ms;"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/34/123184248_e79f3827a9.jpg" /></p><p style="text-align: center; font-family: trebuchet ms;"><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/529/123184248/">Sakura</a><span style="font-style: italic;"> by </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/529/">JapanEyes529</a><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center; font-family: trebuchet ms;">Q: "...<em>Why Zen Sense</em>?..."<br /></p><p style="text-align: center; font-family: trebuchet ms;"> (Anonymous reader)<br /></p><p style="text-align: center; font-family: trebuchet ms;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;">We will begin this week's installment with a very Zen-like question. One that is simple yet profound: why the title of this column is the way it is. </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;">To tell you the truth, it certainly was not the first title that came to the author's mind. But, after much contemplation, the title seems to appear by itself. And since there could also be other readers that are similarly curious, let us address this fundamental yet critical question together, shall we? </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;">As befits a philosophical inquiry, let us begin with a few assumptions. The first assumption is that the full question probably reads, "Why Zen in the land known for its strength in Theravada wisdom?" The second assumption is a bit more general, "What do you mean by Zen Sense?" </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;"><strong>HH the Dalai Lama on Theravada wisdom </strong> </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;">The first assumption brings to mind a private audience with HH the Dalai Lama while the author was doing research in Japan two autumns ago. </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;">The very first words from HH the Dalai Lama were a half-exclamation. Upon learning what the author was doing in Japan, HH put his hands together (in the wai form) and lifted them high over his head in a sign of great reverence, saying, "Thailand has the highest tradition of Buddhism!" </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;">Being nervous, the author thought at first that HH the Dalai Lama meant to say, "(But) Thailand (already) has the highest tradition of Buddhism. (So, what are you doing here in Japan?)" </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;">Upon calming down, the author realised that it was HH the Dalai Lama's nature to always make his audience feel promptly at peace since most always become speechless by his aura and tend to forget their own lines. One technique HH often uses, once learning where the visitor is from or which group the visitor belongs to, is to immediately say something that honours the visitor's background and at the same time shows his humbleness. </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;">Still stunned by the way HH honoured Thai Theravada Buddhism, the author managed to stammer in a merely audible voice that in fact the main focus of the author's research was mindfulness. To be precise, the author was comparing Theravada's Vipassana meditation to that of Zen's and discovered with delight that they are essentially the same! </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;">To that, HH the Dalai Lama looked deeply into the author's eyes and smiled his compassionate, knowing smile. </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;">So, there it is, the answer to our opening question in the sense of why we are talking Zen here in the land of Theravada. Mindfulness is the same training whether practiced in Thailand, Japan, Tibet, or anywhere for that matter. Teachers or school traditions may have their own style of passing on this gem of a lesson. However, the goals, the practice, and the short-term and long-term rewards are essentially the same. </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;"><strong>Zen as a way of life </strong> </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;">Now, let us get back to the reasoning behind the column title. As opposed to the word Dhamma which connotes a complete spiritual liberation, the word Zen gives the vibes of a "work in progress." In other words, Zen or mindfulness practice focuses more on the process rather than on the result. </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;">This connotation goes well with the primary objective the author has in mind for the column - to familiarise the readers with the various ways we could readily add mindfulness into our daily life so that we will benefit from it. </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;">Another subtler implication refers to the fact that the author is also a "work-in-progress", someone who still makes mistakes. Zen realises this human imperfection and thus the need for continued practice to return our mind back to its true, pure essence. </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;">The connotation of Zen that is perhaps best-known by all is on Zen as a way of life. Japanese arts and culture present us with vivid examples. Ikebana flower arrangement, Noh theatre, calligraphy, martial arts, Haiku poetry, painting, the tea ceremony, architecture and landscape, these are just a few. What these all have in common is the spirit of "non-judgmental, intentional awareness, in the here and now", which is the heart of Zen or mindfulness practice. </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;"><strong>Why Zen is about senses </strong> </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;">Even without its deep association with something that titillates our senses such as arts and culture, Zen is still all about the senses. Stripped to the bare, the practice of mindfulness asks us to be hyper-aware of what comes into contact with all our sensorial perception, namely what we see, hear, smell, taste, touch and feel with our mind. One thing at a time, naturally. </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;">The idea is that our mind can perceive clearly just one thing at a time. It is true that many people are prepared to swear that they were born with an ability to multi-task. But if they could see how their mind perceives in the speed of nano-seconds, they would also have to agree that their mind can only do one thing at a time. </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;">This is where a full-scale meditation retreat comes into picture. For those seriously interested in understanding how your body and mind works, a mindfulness retreat experience would allow you to capture that split-second time frame of your life and make a wisdom out of it. Here is the point where mindfulness would deliver a satisfying end result - the true understanding of Dhamma without having to be told by others or without the need to rationalize. </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;">Another pleasant incentive is that secure feeling of knowing that Dhamma could be cultivated in one's own mind "on-demand" - whenever one is mindful enough to "call the shots" in our daily living. </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;"><strong>How long would we remain a "work in progress"? </strong> </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;">Naturally, we humans need incentives before we put our efforts into something. In this regard, Zen provides real inspiration. The venerable Buddhadasa Bhikkhu, the revered late monk, recognised Zen's strength in bringing an individual to a "sudden realisation." It is up to us, really, to take that first step and try. </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;">The more you are eager to get real results out of mindfulness, the harder you have to try to make time for your first retreat. This is because, to have a chance for that Zen-style "sudden realisation", the late Buddhahasa pointed out that you need to be in a company of a good teacher, someone that could pull all the right triggers in you. </p><p style="text-align: justify; font-family: trebuchet ms;">Or, shall we say, you need someone to help instill Zen properly in all your senses? </p>nashhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10875845244276616381noreply@blogger.com0