05/02/2010 14:57 (GMT+7)
It is a truism to say that nobody likes suffering and everybody seeks
happiness. In this world of ours, human beings are making all possible efforts
for prevention and alleviation of suffering and enjoyment of happiness.
Nevertheless, their efforts are mainly directed to the physical well-being by
material means. Happiness is, after all, conditioned by attitudes of mind, and
yet only a few persons give real thought to mental development; fewer still
practice mind-training in earnest. |
05/02/2010 14:53 (GMT+7)
For the beginning meditator I believe it would be helpful to establish an
order in the various steps taken in meditation. First, then, it would be wise
to establish a place of quiet to which one may retire daily and not be
interrupted in his endeavors. Then wash carefully face, hands and feet. Better
yet, if time permits, take a cleansing shower and put on loose, comfortable
clothes. It is wise to meditate at the same time daily to establish a habit. |
05/02/2010 14:15 (GMT+7)
To calm the mind means to find the right balance. If you try to force your
mind too much it goes too far; if you don't try enough it doesn't get there, it
misses the point of balance. For most of us the mind is never at peace, it
never have the solid enery of calmness. |
05/02/2010 12:01 (GMT+7)
When you read books
about meditation, or often when meditation is is presented by different groups,
much of the emphasis falls on the techniques. In the West, people tend to be
very interested in the "technology" of meditation. However, by far
the most important feature of meditation is not technique, but the way of
being, the spirit, which is called the "posture", a posture which is
not so much physical, but more to do with spirit or attitude. |
05/02/2010 11:47 (GMT+7)
Sit comfortably
erect, without leaning forward or backward, left or right. Close your eyes
and think thoughts of good will. Thoughts of good will go first to yourself,
because if you can't think good will for yourself -- if you can't feel a
sincere desire for your own happiness -- there's no way you can truly wish
for the happiness of others. So just tell yourself, "May I find true
happiness" |
05/02/2010 11:47 (GMT+7)
Venerable Sujiva is a Buddhist Theravada monk who has devoted his life to
the meditational aspects of the Buddha's teachings. He donned the robes shortly
after his university graduation in 1975. During his monastic training he
practised under several meditation masters, including the Venerable Sayadaw U
Pandita. Since residing in Santisukharama (Johor, Malaysia)
in the early 1980s he has conducted numerous Vipassana retreats. |
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