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Inviting the Bell: Returning to the Island of Self

Thich Nhat Hanh · June 5, 2010 · EIAB, Germany · Audio Only
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To invite the bell to sound, the Bell Master prepares by bowing to the bell as a Bodhisattva and reciting a specific gatha: Body, speech, and mind in perfect oneness. I send my heart along with the sound of this bell. May all of you who listen to me awaken from your forgetfulness. And transcend the path of anxiety and sorrow. A “waking up” half-sound is produced first, allowing listeners time to prepare, followed by the full sound. Listeners practice three deep in-breaths and out-breaths, silently reciting: I listen, I listen. This wonderful sound brings me back to my true home. This true home is the here and the now.

The practice of mindful breathing allows one to return to the “island of self” (Atta Dipa), a teaching given by the Buddha shortly before his passing in Vaishali. Taking refuge is not seeking something outside, but finding the Three Jewels within:

  1. The Buddha is the energy of mindfulness, concentration, and insight.
  2. The Dharma is the practice of mindful breathing that brings harmony and peace.
  3. The Sangha is the five skandhas operating in harmony.

The five skandhas, or aggregates, are: body, feelings, perceptions, mental formations, and consciousness. Mindfulness acts like sunshine embracing vegetation, naturally improving the quality of breathing and soothing the body and feelings. This energy helps embrace pain and sorrow like a mother holding a baby. For beginners, the collective energy of a Sangha is like a boat that keeps heavy rocks from sinking, supporting the practitioner in handling suffering.

Wrong perceptions are the root of fear, anger, terrorism, and relationship difficulties. To resolve conflict and avoid acting on wrong perceptions, one should wait before reacting and use the three sentences of reconciliation:

  1. “Darling, I suffer and I want you to know it.”
  2. “Darling, I am doing my best.”
  3. “Please help me.”
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