Sunday, September 21, 2014

Via Daily Dharma


A Tree Needs Roots | September 21, 2014

In Buddhism, we study and reflect on the dharma; and then, fully blending what we have understood with our mind, we practice resting evenly in meditation. In the beginning, a tree needs strong roots. Similarly, what is most important for meditation is calm abiding. 
- Ogyen Trinley Dorje, "Calm Abiding"

Via Daily Dharma


If We Could Let Go| September 20, 2014

The very act of clinging causes mental distress—have you ever noticed that longing hurts? Moreover, the exertions are futile since grasping cannot extend the life of pleasure, not even by a nanosecond. As for unpleasant sensations—in truth, they disappear in a moment, too. But when you feel averse to them, the pain doubles. It’s like trying to remove a thorn in your foot by piercing the skin with a second thorn. If we could let go, the mind wouldn't suffer. 
 
- Cynthia Hatcher, "What's So Great About Now?"
 

Flower of the Day: 09/19/14

“Absolutely everything that happens has a spiritual significance, because life is a spiritual adventure. But of course there are more meaningful moments and less meaningful ones. The greater the change that life brings you, the greater the spiritual significance you will unveil. For example, even if you were satisfied with your job and end up losing it, take this as a gift from existence that is helping you to align yourself with your dharma, your greater purpose.”

Sri Prem Baba

No Thought of Self | September 19, 2014

Bow not for something—to get something for yourself. Bow to empty yourself, to repent and clean out your mind. With no thought of self, all benefit. With a thought of self, all suffer. 
 
- Heng Sure, "Bowing"