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Inauguration of Still Water Hall
Sense impression is the second kind of nutriment that we receive through the six sense doors:
- eyes
- ears
- nose
- tongue
- body
- mind
All forms, sounds, smells, tastes, touches, and objects of mind are food for the mind. When we come into contact with toxic images, sounds, or words, our mind becomes “filled with deep suffering.” On the other hand, contemplating the blue sky, listening to the Dharma, or reading wholesome books will nourish joy, energy, and happiness. Practicing mindfulness in every moment helps us maintain sovereignty over our inner world, avoiding the internal formations of anxiety, fear, and despair.
Volition, or intention, is the third kind of nutriment, the food for our will and aspiration:
- a warrior fighting for independence and freedom
- a person living in hatred, only wishing for revenge
- an artist yearning to create
- a monastic wishing to transform suffering and benefit others
- a Bodhisattva carrying the mind of awakening, aspiring for enlightenment and peace for all beings
- a ninety-nine-year-old grandmother wishing to return to Vietnam to die beside her ancestors
All are food that nourishes our path of life. When the will to live is lost, as when the grandmother lets go of her aspiration, death will come. On the other hand, living for love, forgiveness, and liberation will lead to the Pure Land. Each person needs to clearly recognize the kind of intention-nutriment they are consuming in order to walk on the path of liberation.