an important part in my life is the dharma, which means something like "the true nature of things". I believe that every human being should have some time for reflection and spiritual practice in their daily lives. For me, at least, my dharma practice allows me to not get completely caught up in the speed and agression of life her in the US. Contemplating the Four Thoughts - about the preciousness of our human lives, and how short they are, about how all that we do will come back to us and how we do so many things in our lives that lead to suffering - helps me to refocus on what is really important.
2 comments:
I think you are asking a complicated question that is definitely worth thinking about (and it is indeed one that occupies me a lot). To a certain extent the practice of Tibetan Buddhism seems in conflict with a successful career, in that it demands a lot of time, and you do not see any measurable or "objective" results, not like you have done something. On the other hand, through persistent practice you do change the way you are. This new way of being, more mindful and more open, less occupied with hopes and fears, will make you more productive in your daily life. So I guess like everything this is very much a question of balance.
Hi Floris,
I really enjoy this discussion! I like your quote. However, in a Tibetan context this often does not not apply (read for example the stories in Blazing Splendor (http://blazing-splendor.blogspot.com/) the stories of many realized Tibetan masters: they go back in order to help people once they have achieved some kind of realization. They teach and contribute to society. How that would work in a Western context however, I don't know. I think a contemporary example of a Western contemplative is Tenzin Palmo, who spent 12 years meditating in a cave and is currently back to society where she teaches, set up a monastery for nuns (read e.g., "Cave in the Snow" for her biography).
Post a Comment