We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track. If this problem persists help us by reporting it so we can investigate it.
Watch this talk
Login or create a free account to watch this talk and discover other teachings from Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh.
Log in or create an account
Stowbridge Retreat 2nd Day - Dharma Talk
Pāramitā is the practice of crossing over to the other shore, moving from the shore of irritation to the shore of peace through mindful breathing. The first pebble represents dāna, giving. Like the hẹ plant which grows stronger the more it is cut, giving one’s flowerness, a look of compassion, or mindful words enriches the giver. A powerful gift is the mantra: “Darling, I know you are there, and I am so happy.” When anger arises, rather than punishing the other, the Buddha suggests offering a gift prepared in advance, or giving the gift of listening with sympathy.
The human person is composed of five elements or skandhas, visualized as sections of an orange. The first is form, rūpa. Meditation involves scanning the body with mindfulness, smiling to the eyes, heart, and liver to offer recognition and love. Physical pain must be seen as only physical pain, avoiding the “second arrow” of fear and imagination which magnifies suffering. The second section is feelings, which flow like a river in four types: pleasant, unpleasant, neutral, and mixed. Neutral feelings, such as non-toothache, non-craving, or non-anger, are states of true well-being and happiness that should be cherished.
Wrong perceptions are a primary source of suffering. To overcome pride and clarify misunderstandings when hurt by a loved one, the practice is to use the mantra: “Darling, I suffer so much. I don’t understand why. Please help. Please explain to me.” When facing strong emotions, one should not stay in the storm of the mind but return to the trunk of the body, the đan điền. By focusing on the rise and fall of the abdomen during belly breathing, stability is regained. Walking meditation is a celebration of life, allowing the old to die and the new to be born, touching the reality of no birth and no death.
