A wise sage once said, the world would have been in a primitive stage, were it not for the efforts of Buddha and other sages across time. His journey to becoming Buddha is that of patient effort across time. Even after his enlightenment, Buddha spent more than 40 years, sharing his wisdom profoundly influencing humanity's ethical evolution.
Like him, let us begin simply and gradually.
In the beginning, we can gradually, cultivate our awareness, so we can give more conscious decisions through the ups and the downs of life.
As we start experiencing stillness; we become clearer inside, creating from clarity, not from craving or aversion.
As our practice begins to deepen, we must try to meet both extremes with equanimity. Let neither mystical experiences make us overconfident, nor restless, unsettled sessions dampen our resolve. True progress lies in continuing the practice, welcoming all emotions without clinging or resistance.
The anger we encounter in our practice cannot be overcome by more anger. Nor can hate by hate, stinginess by stinginess, or lies by lies. These are diluted by their opposites: anger with compassion, hate with kindness, stinginess with generosity, and lies with truth. Instead of fighting the negative emotions, just become aware of them. Observe them, and feel them and soon you will find that observing them reduces their intensity and brings them into harmony with your life.
When the negatives are diminished with compassion, our ability to express our truth develops. We learn to express truth in a way that brings peace to ourselves and others.
And when the knowledge of our truth becomes clearer, we understand that our true thoughts created our emotional world.
And finally, we remember that all material things are impermanent. This awareness helps us enjoy the present when it is pleasant, and endure it more skillfully when it is not.
May we be inspired to bring more sincerity into our practice.
More of Nitu Chhajer's meditation paintings can be seen at Buddha Path, and the Peace is Creative and transformation series. More of her paintings are available here.
Editorial Team
