An awakened mind
is a mind that is opened to the spiritual streams about him and those around
him. Usually it takes a direct
experience of seeing equivalently to bring this forward but the change in
dealing with the world is always clear.
The challenge for the uninitiated is to simply understand that some such
phenomena is possible and to avoid been dismissive.
This has
attracted investigation throughout history and many have struggled to describe
it all.
This is a worthy
piece inspired by centuries old scholarship and shows us how timeless this all
is.
13 Practices of
an Awakened Person
February 6, 2014 |
Tog-me Zong-po lived nearly 800 years ago, yet
his 37 Practices of a Bodhisattva is still considered a
pinnacle list of traits that a person who wishes to become enlightened for the
benefit of all beings has. The following 13 practices (which I’ve put into
simpler terms to make them easier to understand) are what I consider the most
practical and helpful out of the 37 and by applying these practices to our
daily lives we can make a lasting, positive impression on the collective
consciousness of humanity… a positive influence that is deeply needed
in this time of transition from the old order to the new paradigm.
Some of these are not easy, but for those of us that want to embark on the
journey to awakened enlightenment, these are practices that will lead us there:
1.) Day and
night, be fully alert and present. Listen, reflect, and do a lot of meditation.
2.) Attraction to those close to you catches
you in their currents. Aversion to those who hate on you burns inside. Indifference
that ignores what should be done is a black hole. Take a step outside your
comfort zone.
3.) Some so-called friends take you further and further away from the
path to awakened consciousness. These kinds of friends ridicule and
discourage learning, reflection, and meditation. These kinds of friends make
you lose kindness and compassion. Give up these bad friends.
4.) All suffering comes from wanting to please
our own selves. Enlightened awakening arises when our thoughts and actions help
others. So, in exchange for our selfish desires and neglect of our suffering
humanity, replace thoughts of the self with concern for all others.
5.) If someone spreads ugly rumors about us
with cruel words, and
even if what that person has said spreads to others and gains wide acceptance
as being the truth; wish for that person to overcome their troubles and gain
peace of mind. Applaud all their positive traits and treat them with kindness.
6.) If in a crowd full of people someone
exposes our faults before others and points out the flaws we still have; do not
get angry or become defensive; just listen in silence and reflect on their
words. Treat this person as a teacher.
7.) If someone we love and have cared for with
kindness treats us with thankless resentment and treats us as if we are their
most hated enemy, then see these acts as a terrible sickness that has infected
and affected their mind. Treat them with even more love and affection.
8.) Even when you are famous, praised, and rich
don’t be arrogant. Know that the magnificence of existence, as awesome as it
is, ultimately has no substance. Cast out what pride you might have as a result
of fame.
9.) If we are not able to take control of the
anger inside of us, although we may overpower and conquer others outside, the
anger will just keep coming. Turn inwards and tame the wild flow of your
mind-stream.
10.) Whatever appears to be truly real is
simply what a mind in delusion creates. This mind of ours is also from the
beginning devoid of an essence inherently real. Realize Truth is beyond the
conceptions we have known and beyond the knower as well. Dispel the belief in
inherent existence.
11.) Abusive words and language that we say in
anger cause others a lot of pain to them by disturbing their minds, and we who are
striving to be enlightened will find that our practice will decline. So seeing
the faults that arise from harsh language, abandon abusive and hurtful
language.
12.) Without making efforts to clearly analyze
delusions we have or mistakes we commit, then even though on the outside we
look and play the
part, we may simply be spiritual
materialists. For this reason, try to examine mistakes, delusions, and
faults you possess, then afterwards try to remove them completely.
13.) In everything you do, be mindful of what
is happening in your mind. By being constantly present and aware that you are
feeling, thinking, and acting in a way that helps others.
About the Author
Paul Lenda is a conscious evolution guide, author
of The Creation of a Consciousness Shift, and co-founder of
SHIFT>, a social community focused on anchoring in the new paradigm and
assisting the positive transformation of humanity. With the drive to be aware
of and experience the wider horizon of Reality, Paul has developed an extensive
background in the spiritual and transformative elements of life; one that is
both knowledge and experienced-based. Visit his website www.shift.is, follow him on Twitter or visit
the Shift Facebook community.
No comments:
Post a Comment