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Tech notes: Note regarding Russia 1994: these talks were recorded multiple talks per tape and split across tapes, and ordering and which parts belong together is unclear. This is thus a piece of a talk on an approximate date, pending someone who has time to assemble and edit the pieces.

St Petersburg - Moscow

Thich Nhat Hanh · September 1, 1994 · Moscow, Russia
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Upon hearing the sound of the bell, telephone, or clock, all thinking and talking ceases to focus on deep breathing. Breathing in, the silent words are “Listen, listen”; breathing out, “This wonderful sound brings me back to my true home.” This practice grounds oneself in the present moment, the only place life can be touched. While there is a deep desire for a safe home, many run away from the present because of internal blocks of suffering and conflict among the five elements: body, feelings, perceptions, mental formations, and consciousness. Instead of facing this internal war, people often seek escape through consumption—such as drugs, alcohol, media, and conversation—which only ingests more toxins and obscures the true home.

Happiness consists of touching the wonders of life within and around us, like picking roses amidst thorns. Specific mindfulness exercises cultivate this joy. Breathing in, one becomes aware of their eyes; breathing out, one smiles to them, recognizing them as a condition for happiness capable of seeing forms and colors. Similarly, breathing in and becoming aware of the heart, and breathing out smiling to it, fosters gratitude for its constant work. This energy of mindfulness calms and heals, allowing one to truly be present for others and offer the gift of presence to those who suffer, saying, “Darling, I know you suffer, therefore I am there for you.”

Taking refuge in the island of self, known in Pali as Attadipa Sarana, provides safety and access to the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha within. However, suffering often arises from wrong perceptions and attachment to specific ideas of happiness. A tragic story of a young soldier illustrates this danger: a wrong perception regarding his son’s description of a “Daddy” who visited nightly—actually the father’s shadow on the wall—led to his wife’s suicide because pride prevented him from asking for the truth. In true love, there is no place for pride. When suffering arises, one must approach the beloved to ask and listen calmly, using breathing and walking meditation to restore calm if anger is present.

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St Petersburg - Moscow