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KT GDPT
We want to be whole • we vow to keep our bodies whole, holding hands so that no one or any circumstance can divide us
We want to live and act according to the Dharma • to live and act in accordance with the Dharma, to support those who are walking this path, leaving no one behind
We want to be compassionate • to practice the path of loving-kindness, to live in the spirit of joy and letting go, resolutely not following the path of hatred, violence, or discrimination
The practice of understanding and love is the very core of mindful living. Calming the mind, being still with the breath, with each step, eating and working in silence helps to calm the body, calm the mind, and generate concentration and insight. Understanding leads to love: we do not blame others because we know they are under the influence of wrong perceptions; practicing to love those who are difficult to love is the true measure of compassion. Happiness is not an individual matter but a collective resonance; when we make others happy, we ourselves receive peace and joy.
The Five Mindfulness Trainings – the only path out of suffering, containing mindfulness, concentration, insight, and the full presence of the Three Jewels
- not killing (life)
- not stealing (possessions)
- not engaging in sexual misconduct (relationships)
- deep listening and loving speech
- mindful consumption (of food and culture)
Practicing the Five Mindfulness Trainings for seven days can clearly increase the happiness of a family. The fourth and fifth trainings help protect body and mind from physical and mental toxins; for example, avoiding junk food, and being mindful of violent television programs. Mindfulness is the Buddha shining light, the breath is the Dharma protecting us, the five aggregates are the Sangha diligently working together.
The story of Tu Uyen and Giang Kieu illustrates the practice of “offering the incense of the heart” (ethics, concentration, insight, liberation, insight of liberation): it is not the burning of ordinary incense, but the offering of the heart’s incense through loving speech, deep listening, and giving up alcohol to reconcile with parents and loved ones. When understanding and love are deep, spiritual miracles happen, happiness returns like a satellite signal, and Giang Kieu returns to Tu Uyen’s life.