Ably self-restrained are the wise,
in action,
in thought
and in speech.
Dhammapada 234
It is the time of year when we readily delight in seeing the trees turn yellow and red. Probably we don’t feel the same delight about the weather turning cold. Similarly, we can appreciate the benefits brought by developments in technology at the same time as feeling frustrated by the increase in complexity.
If we are still becoming lost in liking and disliking, this world of joy and sorrow is a struggle. For those beings who see clearly that liking and disliking are simply movements within awareness, that can be known for what they are, there is no struggle. One perspective on the middle way is to see it as an encouragement to feel what we feel – agreeable or disagreeable – and carefully inhibit tendencies to become lost.
Intentionally frustrating preferences does not have to be an unattractive chore. It can be a skilful exercise leading to increased confidence.
(If you are living outside of the northern hemisphere I hope you are able to translate the illustration of autumn)
(This post is also available at dhammakatha.org)
These Dhammapada quotes have been taken or adapted from, A Dhammapada For Contemplation, by Ajahn Munindo, published by Aruno Publications. They should not be understood as literal renderings of the Dhammapada. For literal translations, please read other works. The reflections are by Ajahn Munindo.
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