Virtue.

weak virtue leads us into suffering so we strive to make it strong…#WednesdayWisdom

“Sīla is an internal, aware, and intentional ethical behavior, according to one’s commitment to the path of liberation. It is an ethical compass within self and relationships, rather than what is associated with the English word “morality” (i.e., obedience, a sense of obligation, and external constraint).- Wikipedia

• Virtue is the foundation of Dhamma practice. We start with training body and mind by guarding our speech and actions. It is best to speak little, which prevents us getting ourselves into problems, but this is difficult in our worldly lives where we interact with people constantly in our relationships and through work, socialising etc.
• The best we can do then is to be constantly mindful of what we say and how we say it, counting to ten and holding back if we’re not sure that what we’re about to impart is correct. Similarly, if we are mindful and alert we can check up on whether the action we are considering taking is correct, beneficial or, at least, not harmful to ourselves and others.
• When we strive to be impeccable in our words and actions, we become more open and free which, in turn, makes us happy and at ease. We will have nothing to worry about. We don’t forget ourselves. I like to think of the phrase: “Check yourself before you wreck yourself!” I’m not sure where this saying came from but it’s certainly helpful and a shorter version of this verse:

“In all actions, may I closely examine my state of mind,

And the moment a disturbing emotion or negative attitude arises,

Since this may cause harm to myself and others,

May I firmly face and avert it.”

… which is taken from ‘Eight Verses for Training the Mind’ by Geshe Langri Tangpa (1054–1123).

Here is a detailed explanation from Tushita Meditation Centre which expands upon the teaching contained within this verse which you might find helpful:

“Verse 3 — This verse calls for the sincere practice of mindfulness, closely examining our state of mind throughout all our actions. Through this practice of mindfulness, the teachings encourage us to firmly face and avert any disturbing emotions or negative attitudes the very moment they arise. The reason for this is that our delusions, disturbing emotions, and negative attitudes can provoke us to think, speak, or act in non virtuous ways which may cause harm to ourselves and others. This behavior brings karmic consequences and perpetuates our delusion and suffering. Therefore, throughout the day, while working, driving, walking, studying, talking with others, and so forth, we should closely examine our state of mind and heart. By training our mind in this skillful way, we will be able to firmly face and avert disturbing emotions and negative attitudes as they arise and before they develop any further momentum or power.”

May this teaching lead you to happiness; may it help you grow in truth. May you be freed from the suffering of birth and death.

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