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Tech notes: poor sound. sequential translation, english - chinese, mic for TNH only, chinese in background, question askers and translators poorly audible in background

Hong Kong University

Thich Nhat Hanh · November 11, 2001 · Hong Kong · Audio Only
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Telephone meditation transforms the ringing sound into a bell of mindfulness, a signal to return to the true home. Upon hearing the sound, one stops thinking and working to breathe in and out three times, calming the body and mind. This practice anchors the mind in the here and the now, the only moment where life is truly available. Before making a call, a short poem or Gatha is recited to vow that words will be like flowers and gems, establishing good communication. The Pure Land is available in the present moment, requiring only a mind free from the three poisons of craving, anger, and wrong perceptions. Mindfulness acts as a resurrection, allowing one to touch the wonders of life. Looking deeply into the body reveals that parents and ancestors are fully present in every cell. Consciousness contains seeds or bijas; meditation helps water the positive seeds and transform the garbage of negative emotions back into flowers.

To cultivate love and resolve suffering, four mantras are practiced:

  1. Darling, I am really here for you — offering the gift of true presence.
  2. Darling, I know you are there, alive, and that makes me very happy — recognizing the existence of the beloved.
  3. Darling, I know you suffer, that is why I am here for you — offering relief when the beloved is in pain.
  4. Darling, I suffer, please help — overcoming pride to ask for support when hurt by the one you love.

Compassionate listening, the practice of Guan Yin, involves listening with the sole purpose of giving the other person a chance to empty their heart. Even if speech is full of wrong perceptions, mindfulness protects the listener. When anger manifests, it should be embraced tenderly like a mother holding a crying baby. If anger persists, communication is necessary within twenty-four hours, potentially using a note to express suffering, the effort to practice, and a request for help.

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