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Mindfulness at Every Moment
*Sitting in the pine forest, a small pine cone is placed on the steering wheel as a reminder: each time you see it, be fully present, stop making phone calls while driving to avoid accidents, and cherish the present moment. The pine cone (like the sound of the bell) is a condition that helps us return to our breath, smile, and feel the energy of peace from the teacher – practicing mindfulness (Smṛti/Sati), which means “being present” with both body and mind.
*Mindfulness is the heart of the Plum Village practice, present in the five faculties, five powers, and the Noble Eightfold Path. When the mind wanders to the past or the future, we “die many times”; only when the mind returns to the body, dwelling in the present moment, do we truly live – fully with each breath. The Sangha, the sound of the bell, the pine cone, or a pebble in the pocket are “reminders” to help us maintain mindfulness, prevent accidents of body and mind, and protect ourselves.
*In daily life, every activity – driving, washing dishes, sweeping leaves, digging the earth – can become walking meditation if done with an in-breath in calm, and an out-breath with a smile. When anger arises, instead of punishing or suppressing it, we should:
- Remain still – keep silent and do not act hastily.
- Hold a pebble (or a cushion) and breathe: “Dear Buddha, I am angry”; “Buddha, please help me.”
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Practice walking meditation or move the body gently with mindfulness.
The energy of mindfulness touches, embraces, and transforms anger, bringing us from the shore of suffering to the shore of peace in each moment.