A View on Buddhism

[Jordan]

I think I've got a cute little story to share (and one that might be somewhat of a follow-up to my "Reminders" thread):

I went out to do a little shopping today here in the New York suburbs, but not before reading some more selections from a Thich Nhat Hanh reader on the bus (the lessons he teaches really seem like they transcend not only the whole Theravada/Mahayana thing but all faiths).

Who we are is, in part, a result of our unpleasant experiences. Deep looking allows us to see the wondrous elements contained in the weaknesses of others and ourselves, and these flowers of insight will never wilt. --N.H.

I felt a bit more inspired afterwards, and I made it a point to replace the aversion one can feel for the hectic atmosphere common in consumer culture, to show equanimity to those visibly agitated by such hustle-and-bustle, and to go my way with patience.

I decided to take a peek inside a homewares store. As I was walking around, I tried to remain mindful of the quote above when I saw a long line of impatient customers at the cashiers' counters ... when I heard a child crying ... when I became tempted to purchase one of the many items for sale although my money would be better used for something else ... and I kept a smile on my face.

... and as I walked around, smiling, trying to use everything around me as a means to keep focused on the moment, guess whom I bumped into? The Big Fella himself!



Now, that's awesome.

In case you're wondering, no, I didn't buy it (though I was curious about it enough to snap a quick photo). I think all of the above is a good metaphor to show that I can find peace in the strangest of places--and while that statue would have been too big to fit anywhere in my apartment (and even though I'm a strong guy , too heavy to carry), I can still bring this peacefulness with me everywhere I go.
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~Jordan

[Gary]

I like that!


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Oneness is reality.
Oneness perceived is duality.
Duality is illusion.
Oneness perceived is illusion.

[Tamara]

Jordan, I love the story, thank you for sharing.
It reminds me on this:

2 or 3 months ago I was a bit discouraged because I understood that I will never have the time for a Buddhist retreat, not in the next 10 years.

Then I had the great idea to use everything that comes along as material for `Dharma- practice`.

Fantastic. It feels like I am in retreat all the time ( as long as I do not forget about my resolve... ).

Tamara

[Rich999]

Some great points here! We don't need to go on a retreat for the Dharma. With 'right' thought, we can feel it all around us everywhere we go, even in London or New York!