- If the mind is pure, the path will be smooth and the journey peaceful
- Everything in this world is brought about by causes and conditions
- Life is a succession of grasping and attachments; and then, because of this, they must assume the illusions of pain and suffering
- Even a good thing, when it becomes an unnecessary burden, should be thrown away
- The one who maintains the noble path to enlightenment will not maintain regrets, neither will he cherish anticipations, but, with an equitable and peaceful mind, will meet what comes
- The wise man learns to meet the changing circumstances of life with an equitable spirit, being neither elated by success nor depressed by failure
- The mind that is not disturbed by things as they occur, that remains pure and tranquil under all circumstances, is the true mind that should be the master
- Human beings tend to move in the direction of their thoughts
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The Buddha told how to control distracting and unwholesome thoughts in the discourse, Vitakkasanthana Sutta:
ReplyDeleteEssentially, we need to try, a step at a time, the following when confronting an unwholesome thought within you:
1.Think of a good thing. In this case, the easiest is to think that not doing this bad thing is good in itself.
If the above attempt fails, and the unwholesome thoughts come up again, go to number 2:
2.Think of the unwholesome repercussions this thought will bring; most of the time, these repercussions will be upon yourself (the law of karma).
If No. 2 is still not working, go to No. 3 and so-fourth:
3.Don’t think about it. (Find something else to do).
4.“STOP” distracting thought formations: As soon as you see an unwholesome thought, say “Stop”to yourself, and stop that thought from forming other thoughts. Essentially the Buddha said to tell yourself to gradually slow down the mental (and physical) mess that this unwholesome thought is creating in you.
5. Final try: With clenched-teeth, tongue on the palate of the mouth, and fight evil mind with good mind.
The Buddha stopped here, so it means that No. 5 should work... if it is not, you are not trying properly.
Bless you for stopping by and adding such valuable wisdom to the Blog. Much gratitude and appreciation and I hope you stop by again soon!!
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