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The Middle Way
The details of this talk focus on the 11th gatha of the Middle Way, Contemplation on the Four Noble Truths, explaining that a deep understanding of emptiness is crucial to avoid self-harm. Thich Nhat Hanh uses many illustrative examples such as catching a poisonous snake and an empty teacup to explain that emptiness is not absence but freedom and space for everything to exist. He explains that everything is empty, without a separate self, helping us to see the world more clearly and recognize the continuous interconnection and transformation. He also talks about cause and effect through the example of a corn seed and a corn plant, emphasizing that denying cause and effect is denying the existence of everything. The Middle Way transcends all opposites like being/non-being, birth/death, helping us understand the interdependent nature of all things. The final gathas in the Middle Way help us see that everything is possible thanks to emptiness, opening up opportunities for profound understanding. He concludes that applying deep teachings in daily life is a great source of happiness.
