Today marks three months since the Pulse killings in Orlando, the event that sparked the writing and sharing of these Dharma Bread Crumbs.
As witnesses, we’ve had this time for the horror to sink in, for reactions to arise, the stories to be known and processing to occur . . .
For the sense of helplessness to pass.
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Our teachings say there are four emotional ‘states’ practitioners should cherish and strive to perfect.
1. Equanimity: removes the habit of discrimination.
2. Patience: removes the habit of anger.
3. Enthusiastic Joy: removes the habits of apathy and cynical doubt.
4. Generosity: removes the habit of greed.
With diligence and care, one may cherish these four emotional states
and develop them until they are habitual.
***
Did the violence in Orlando, and other locations in the days since, move and inspire you to change?
To care enough to transform?
To stop wringing your hands and grow?
To make a difference in your world?
All people possess the nature of complete Awakening, but for many, it is buried so deeply in the defilements of desire and passion that it remains unknown.
Can you sense yours?
Where do you come out on this?
Be sincere.
Seek.
Learn.
Sit quietly, breathe naturally, watch your mind.
Everything is connected.
The world of seemingly separate things is real only for a while, not eternally real . . . it comes and goes as we hide and seek ourselves.
Be sincere.
Seek.
Learn.
Collaborate.
***
-Neither grief or a broken heart, or fear, precludes you from doing this.