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Basic Buddhist Teachings 24 - No Greed, No Hatred, No Ignorance
Breathing in – breathing out fully with each breath, contemplating in order to dwell peacefully in the Sangha, smiling and sending love to our loved ones and even to the person who is most difficult to love. Next, we explore non-greed – which is not asceticism, but true happiness that arises when we let go of all sensual pleasures. Sensual pleasures are likened to obstacles of suffering:
- a bare bone
- a piece of raw meat
- a bundle of straw torches held against the wind
- a pit of burning coals
- a poisonous snake
- borrowed goods
- a fruit-laden tree
-
a forest of swords and spears
Each image affirms: if we cling, we will suffer; if we let go, we will have peace and happiness.
Alongside non-greed is knowing what is enough – contentment, simple living, so that our inner stability is firm and we are not controlled by money or fame. Most important of all is to build and rely on the Sangha, to practice the Four Immeasurable Minds (loving kindness, compassion, joy, and equanimity) in order to transform anger and to spread joy. Each of us is a “mindfulness artist,” skillful in our speech and actions, not distinguishing between right–wrong or good–evil, but simply aiming for skillfulness to transform conflict, connect the community, and nourish happiness right here and now.