Silence is an empty space,
Space is the home of the awakened mind.
Monday, June 6, 2016
Tuesday, September 16, 2014
Folly of an Intelligent World
WEBSITE: Please enter your new password.
USER: cabbage
WEBSITE: Sorry, the password must be more
than 8 characters.
USER: boiled cabbage
WEBSITE: Sorry, the password must contain
1 numerical character.
USER: 1 boiled cabbage
WEBSITE: Sorry, the password cannot have
blank spaces.
USER: 50bloodyboiledcabbages
WEBSITE: Sorry, the password must contain
at least one upper case character.
USER: 50BLOODYboiledcabbages
WEBSITE: Sorry, the password cannot use
more than one upper case character consecutively.
USER:50BloodyBoiledCabbagesShovedUpYourBumIfYouDon'tGiveMeAccessNow!
WEBSITE: Sorry, the password cannot
contain punctuation.
USER:ReallyPissedOff50BloodyBoiledCabbagesShovedUpYourBumIfYouDontGiveMeAccessNow
WEBSITE: Sorry, that password is already in use.
- full text forwarded from a friend
Dream Scapes
Some say dreams are unconscious (creative) representations of your conscious thoughts.
Others say dreams are signs or fore-sights of what might happen.
Yet others say dreams are the opposite of your real life.
Whatever they are, dreams are fascinating wonders.
Some dreams just appear to be so coherent and real that you wake up rather shaken.
This section compiles such dreams of mine.
(Best read with nonjudgmental mind; Any similarity is unknown)
Midnight - Dawn 17 Sep 2014
A long coherent dream occur, following is a sniplet:
I find myself in a mixed-ages classroom in a foreign land (from the text I read and the language I hear). All is well until the teacher asks us to do some homework to be submitted the following week. She poses the question to me, "Are you going to do it?". I find myself replying, "I am returning next week." So I must be here for a study/cultural exchange trip.
Just then a tall and rather suave looking chap stands up. He draws out a long sword from no-where and starts challenging me. I refuse and he starts slashing 3 young classmates (around 5 years old) who then vaporize and vanish.
I stand up and out of no-where draw out a long sword. We exchange a few strokes till he finally retreats.
"That is called fencing." A young voice drifts in from the other side of the classroom door. The 3 slain children walk in. I reckon they must be coming back in spirit.
We chat awhile. I feel glad to see them again. Just as I keep my sword, I feel a sharp pain in my left waist. I look down and am greeted by the wide grin of one of the children, inserting a dagger where the pain is.
~~~
Sunday, June 17, 2012
Word of the year: Austerity
austerity
noun
abandoned
buildings with a classical austerity
2. asceticism, economy, rigidity, abstinence, self-discipline, chastity, sobriety, continence, puritanism, solemnity, self-denial, strictness, abstemiousness,chasteness, exactingness, Spartanism
the years of
austerity which followed the war
Collins
Thesaurus of the English Language – Complete and Unabridged 2nd
Edition. 2002 © HarperCollins Publishers 1995, 2002
In my high
school days, when I first learnt about the word Austerity, I can remember its 2nd meaning: Strictness, but never
the 1st: Simplicity.
Back then, I can hardly see how Strictness is related
to Simplicity.
As my spiritual life unfolds, I find this word popping up in
spiritual literature frequently, and I take it for granted, especially in the
context of spirituality, to mean strictness/self-dsicipline/ascetism, since
this is the meaning I can only remember since high school days anyway.
However last month, while watching the documentary on the
life of forest ascetics featuring Ajahn Chah, I caught this word ringing
in my head again and found myself searching it online.
Refreshing as the morning mist, the beauty of the word Austerity dawns upon me. The once
diverse meanings "Strictness; Simplicity" of this
word, now after yrs of spiritual practice, present themselves to me in one unity.
Of course, when one is self-disciplined, abstained and
strict (which is different from harsh), one lives a simple life, clutter-free,
trouble-free, worry-free.
The rules are meant to protect us, the righteous man stands
unstained.
Morality, self-discipline and simplicity.
These qualities of spirituality encapsulated in one word
- Austerity.
Austerity - the
true essence of Spirituality!
What a beautiful word
it is!
Austerity - the mantra for my spiritual practice 2012
Dear friends, your comments based on personal
experience and insights of the word are welcomed. Pls post them below:
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Mass Dana - Dtun Ajahn, 23 May 2012
This is one of the happiest days of my life - preparing food and offering dana to the noble one Ajahn Dtun and his disciples.
Ajahn Dtun is a Thai forest monk, a direct disciple of the late Ajahn Chah whom most people believe is an Arahant (an enlightened one).
Ajahn Dtun's radiance, energy, compassion, composure and grace captivates me instantly when I first met him during his talk on Monday. He has an aura that calms and uplifts at the same. This inspires me instantly like a stroke of lightning.
I noticed Ajahn Dtun sit with his legs folded elegantly beneath him. Most people would agree that this sitting posture is not comfortable at all. He sat without even once shifting while delivering the 2 hours talk! During Q&A, he answered all questions with equanimity and child-like enthusiasm.
After the talk, people were reluctant to go home. Being too polite to leave before us, Ajahn Dtun stayed around while people started taking pictures of him. He sat in what I would call perfect poise with a nourishing smile.
From the beginning to the end, I only experienced sustained radiance, energy, compassion, composure and grace from him. Touched by the energies, I experienced joy and rapture. I am so inspired that I have a strong urge to go forth. It is as if I was transformed. At his point, I know that he is a stream enterer (a noble one).
Later, knowing that he only takes 1 meal a day impresses me even further. Given this and the fact he is recovering from a major illness, I cannot believe the energy I saw that sustained till 10+pm (at least) on Monday night.
His translating Caucasian disciple who speaks Thai fluently is a rare gem too.
Speaking Thai and English back and forth non-stop, taking 1 meal a day, taking not even a single sip of water during the 2 hours, I did not detect even the slightest drop in energy.
I only see a child-like face radiating with compassion and calm.
So austere is their training, so disciplined is their conduct, so polished are their attainments!
Ajahn Dtun is indeed a worthy one, worthy of offerings. Never have I prepared and offered any food with such joy and energy.
This has an instant cleansing effect - an opening of the heart and clarity of the mind.
Later in the day, I notice people who tend to not treat me well, start to change too (and I would not call it coincidental)!
Even the simple act of dana with joy brings me such benefits, what remains to say of even more meritorious deeds?
I am inspired and so may I inspire.
Be a living example and pay it forward.
Let's sustain the good triple gem for as long as we all exist...
Sadhu Sadhu Sadhu everyone!
Ajahn Dtun and his disciples visit Singapore for the 1st time from 21st - 23rd May 2012.
A devoted lay Singaporean Buddhist went all the way to his monastery in Thailand to request for him 3 times and Ajahn Dtun accepted on the 3rd time.
Appendix: Qualities of Ariya (noble people - stream enterer)
[ Reference: "Ten Suttas from Digha Nikaya", Burma Pitaka Association, 1984]
| Ten Samyojanas Fetters | Seven Anusayas Latent Defilements | ArahatEnlightened | AnagamiNon-Returner | SakadagamiOnce-Returner | SotapanStream Winner | |
| Avijja Ignorance | Avijja Ignorance | IS |  EXTINCT | |||
| Uddhacca Restlessness | IS | EXTINCT | ||||
| Mana Conceit, Pride | Mana Conceit, Pride | IS | EXTINCT | |||
| Arupa-raga Formless Realm Craving | IS | EXTINCT | ||||
| Rupa-raga Fine-material Realm Craving | Bhavaraga Existence Craving | IS | EXTINCT | |||
| Patigha Aversion, Hatred, Ill Will, Anger | Patigha Aversion, Hatred, Ill Will, Anger | IS | EXTINCT | EXTINCT |  PARTIALLY EXTINCT | |
| Kamaraga Sensuous Craving | Kamaraga Sensuous Craving | IS | EXTINCT | EXTINCT | PARTIALLY EXTINCT | |
| Silabbata Paramassa After Rules & Rituals | IS | EXTINCT | EXTINCT | | EXTINCT | |
| Vicikiccha Sceptical Doubts | Vicikiccha Sceptical Doubts | IS | EXTINCT | EXTINCT | | EXTINCT |
| Sakkaya Ditthi Personality Belief | Ditthi False View | IS | EXTINCT | EXTINCT | | EXTINCT |
| Ten Samyojanas Fetters | Seven Anusayas Latent Defilements | Arahat Enlightened | Anagami Non-Returner | Sakadagami Once-Returner | Sotapan Stream Winner |
Monday, April 16, 2012
In memory of my late grandma (1929 - 16 April 2012)
When this day has passed, you have 1 day less to be who you want to be...
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Spirituality defined
Spirituality is the wholeness, oneness beyond the physical and mundane.
It is the break-through beyond self.
It is the connection between self and everything, every being in the universe, in all dimensions - physical, mental, emotional, etherical etc...
Spirituality is not the same as religion.
The difference: Spirituality emphasizes on direct experience while religion emphasizes on faith.
The common area: morality is the foundation for both.
My spirituality channels - nature, healing, wellness, meditation, yoga, martial arts, travel, music (esp playing piano), aromatherapy, arts therapy, contemplative writing (e.g. this blog), environmentalism, education etc.
Anything that can help me establish the connection and oneness, the spreading, involution and evolution of self.
Anything that can help me establish the connection and oneness, the spreading, involution and evolution of self.
Being spiritual helps me to gain the most clarity in life.
The real insight, simplicity and grounding.
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Tune in to my spiritual space...
I have decided to document all my spiritual retreats. I will start with my most recent spiritual trip to the mountains and national park off Sydney and slowly make a trip back to my previous ones while documenting new spiritual trips at the same time.
The purpose is mainly for me to see for myself how much my spiritual horizon has widened, and for my friends and anyone interested to share my joy and be informed of avenues to grow spiritually themselves.
I will also gradually use this platform to launch my "Anything Spiritual Supermart".
Sounds gd!? Tune in to my spiritual space...
Suggestion: read articles from bottom up, from oldest to newest.
The purpose is mainly for me to see for myself how much my spiritual horizon has widened, and for my friends and anyone interested to share my joy and be informed of avenues to grow spiritually themselves.
I will also gradually use this platform to launch my "Anything Spiritual Supermart".
Sounds gd!? Tune in to my spiritual space...
Suggestion: read articles from bottom up, from oldest to newest.
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Awakening the Third Eye - 25 - 26 Feb 2012
These 2 days start with misty and foggy mornings, the sun seems to have disappeared. The temperature drops drastically (compared to the 1st day we arrived) and I am SO grateful for all the warm clothing I bring = D
I am so looking forward to this segment of the intensive - Awakening the Third Eye (ATE). I am always a visual person, I am sure ATE will superlatively enhance my meditating experiences and insights.
The following are all my 1st person encounter:
The 3rd eye physically resides between the brows. Seeing in spiritual terms means feeling (etherically in clairvision term) and knowing (astrally in clairvision terms). It is a holistic integrative experience activating the physical and subtle bodies, such that I enter into a wider, deeper space when I interact with both my external and internal worlds.
Further, absorption into the qualities of the deep vast space is more clarity, serenity and groundedness.
ATE is achieved, in clairvision technique, via throat friction which amplifies the gateway (third eye in this case). Whenever the gateway is subtle, use throat friction. Though I find myself not needing throat friction much to access this gateway, I do feel the amplification using it especially when I am distracted.
When TE is activated, pulsation, warmth or tingling sensation is felt in between the brows. Once focus is maintained on these qualities, I find myself dissolve/melt into a vast still space. It feels like my body is not me; it feels like I have transcended myself; it feels like the space and I are one. It is the same feeling as Anatta (non-self) a key concept in Buddhism, a feeling I have experienced previously in my Buddhist Vipassana meditation in 2005. I am surprised I took 5 days to experience this in the previous Vipassana retreat but just one seating in ATE this time round. Is ATE method more effective or such quick access the result of my continuous practice on dynamic awareness since 2005. Or both. Anyway I am grateful = D
In the beginning, the space is dark and almost black. With more practise and "fine-tuning", the space turns from dark purple to velvety purple to velvety purple with glow in the center. Towards the later part of intensive, whenever I cross my eyes, I automatically enter this velvety glowy purple space without much conscious effort, and the glow in the center becomes more and more intense (yet not blinding). I have yet to find a physical parallel to compare this glow with. I can only say it is a kinda light from the higher realms.
After throat friction and ATE on one's own, ATE is further activated with a partner by looking at each other's "third eye". I can tune into my partner's space by connecting to his/her third eye, and I can experience what he/she is experiencing by being in the same space.
My experience with 2 partners are particularly interesting:
When I connected with Sue, I can feel a "bridge"connecting our third eyes.The feeling is very concrete and real. The best thing is Sue felt the same too (after the session we shared our experience). I can detect her dark and bright spots in her body and her aura as well.
The only problem connecting with 3rd eye with eyes open is that once I blink, I inevitably snapped out of the deep vast space which takes time to build up again. I posed this qn in the group discussion and asked for solution. Soon after I asked, I realised the answer myself...
My next sitting is with Suki who is here to assist our intensives:
I started by simply softening my gaze and immediately I found myself blink less. As soon as I am aware that I blink less and am excited about it, I start to blink again!
I realise that thinking, trying, sense of self are deterrents to letting go.
Letting go, non-grasping, not trying are ingredients for deepening into the spiritual experience.
When I blinked less, I find myself more absorbed into the space, more melted away, dense solid and firm.
Suki experienced and reported the same when she connected to my space which is very assuring that I am getting it.
When I dissolve into a vast still space with pure concentrated mental energies, I first experience vast capacity for love and other positive energies. All the emotions start to run through me and I find tears roll down like running water. At first I was too shy to cry in public. Then I realise it is gd that I release the suppressed emotions within. After sometime, I come to even realise that I am not crying but just emotions flowing through me. Let it flow let it flow...
After sessions of "cleansing", in subsequent sessions on the second day onwards, I feel more still and dense. It feels as if I am rock solid against external forces. It is when I know I am unshakable.
We also have experience connecting with centres along the column (can map it to the spine and extended to the crown), particularly the belly and the heart. I personally do not have significant experiences with these pts perhaps I am still mastering my third eye and absorption. Others do share interesting experiences though.
Now on mundane things. Food!
This is our kitchen and dining area (on a foggy cold day):
We are served 3 vegetarian home-made meals a day by our loving and generous Clairvision practitioners who have come to stay and volunteer. I am eternally grateful to them for spending 6 hrs a day, and sacrificing a part of their lives, coming here to feed us!
It is a shame I did not take any picture of any of the sumptuous gorgeous spreads and the lovely helpers. It is my greatest regrets. RenG, can I count on you for this? Did you take any picture???
Nevertheless, we have such gd meals, from Indian to Chinese to French to Italian all home-made! Carrot cake, ginger cake, rice pudding cake, banana walnut cake... oh heavenly!
I can't say thank you enough!
This is the "spiritual tree" under which many people seek refuge for a quiet time after meals:
This is the evidence I was there haha...
Group photo taken under the tree
I am so looking forward to this segment of the intensive - Awakening the Third Eye (ATE). I am always a visual person, I am sure ATE will superlatively enhance my meditating experiences and insights.
The following are all my 1st person encounter:
The 3rd eye physically resides between the brows. Seeing in spiritual terms means feeling (etherically in clairvision term) and knowing (astrally in clairvision terms). It is a holistic integrative experience activating the physical and subtle bodies, such that I enter into a wider, deeper space when I interact with both my external and internal worlds.
Further, absorption into the qualities of the deep vast space is more clarity, serenity and groundedness.
ATE is achieved, in clairvision technique, via throat friction which amplifies the gateway (third eye in this case). Whenever the gateway is subtle, use throat friction. Though I find myself not needing throat friction much to access this gateway, I do feel the amplification using it especially when I am distracted.
When TE is activated, pulsation, warmth or tingling sensation is felt in between the brows. Once focus is maintained on these qualities, I find myself dissolve/melt into a vast still space. It feels like my body is not me; it feels like I have transcended myself; it feels like the space and I are one. It is the same feeling as Anatta (non-self) a key concept in Buddhism, a feeling I have experienced previously in my Buddhist Vipassana meditation in 2005. I am surprised I took 5 days to experience this in the previous Vipassana retreat but just one seating in ATE this time round. Is ATE method more effective or such quick access the result of my continuous practice on dynamic awareness since 2005. Or both. Anyway I am grateful = D
In the beginning, the space is dark and almost black. With more practise and "fine-tuning", the space turns from dark purple to velvety purple to velvety purple with glow in the center. Towards the later part of intensive, whenever I cross my eyes, I automatically enter this velvety glowy purple space without much conscious effort, and the glow in the center becomes more and more intense (yet not blinding). I have yet to find a physical parallel to compare this glow with. I can only say it is a kinda light from the higher realms.
Actually this is not even close, I just can't find anything similar...
After throat friction and ATE on one's own, ATE is further activated with a partner by looking at each other's "third eye". I can tune into my partner's space by connecting to his/her third eye, and I can experience what he/she is experiencing by being in the same space.
My experience with 2 partners are particularly interesting:
When I connected with Sue, I can feel a "bridge"connecting our third eyes.The feeling is very concrete and real. The best thing is Sue felt the same too (after the session we shared our experience). I can detect her dark and bright spots in her body and her aura as well.
The only problem connecting with 3rd eye with eyes open is that once I blink, I inevitably snapped out of the deep vast space which takes time to build up again. I posed this qn in the group discussion and asked for solution. Soon after I asked, I realised the answer myself...
My next sitting is with Suki who is here to assist our intensives:
I started by simply softening my gaze and immediately I found myself blink less. As soon as I am aware that I blink less and am excited about it, I start to blink again!
I realise that thinking, trying, sense of self are deterrents to letting go.
Letting go, non-grasping, not trying are ingredients for deepening into the spiritual experience.
When I blinked less, I find myself more absorbed into the space, more melted away, dense solid and firm.
Suki experienced and reported the same when she connected to my space which is very assuring that I am getting it.
When I dissolve into a vast still space with pure concentrated mental energies, I first experience vast capacity for love and other positive energies. All the emotions start to run through me and I find tears roll down like running water. At first I was too shy to cry in public. Then I realise it is gd that I release the suppressed emotions within. After sometime, I come to even realise that I am not crying but just emotions flowing through me. Let it flow let it flow...
After sessions of "cleansing", in subsequent sessions on the second day onwards, I feel more still and dense. It feels as if I am rock solid against external forces. It is when I know I am unshakable.
We also have experience connecting with centres along the column (can map it to the spine and extended to the crown), particularly the belly and the heart. I personally do not have significant experiences with these pts perhaps I am still mastering my third eye and absorption. Others do share interesting experiences though.
Now on mundane things. Food!
This is our kitchen and dining area (on a foggy cold day):
We are served 3 vegetarian home-made meals a day by our loving and generous Clairvision practitioners who have come to stay and volunteer. I am eternally grateful to them for spending 6 hrs a day, and sacrificing a part of their lives, coming here to feed us!
It is a shame I did not take any picture of any of the sumptuous gorgeous spreads and the lovely helpers. It is my greatest regrets. RenG, can I count on you for this? Did you take any picture???
Nevertheless, we have such gd meals, from Indian to Chinese to French to Italian all home-made! Carrot cake, ginger cake, rice pudding cake, banana walnut cake... oh heavenly!
I can't say thank you enough!
This is the "spiritual tree" under which many people seek refuge for a quiet time after meals:
This is the evidence I was there haha...
Group photo taken under the treeThis is the space beyond the dining area, where the helpers stay. View taken between the dining area and the spiritual tree.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Prelude to ISIS 101 - Clairvision School of Meditation @ Hidden Valley, NSW, Australia
Whom I consider as my spiritual brother, Resh Teoh (Teoh Renshang), is someone I kept a look-out for since my JC days. Back then, I knew him only by name as a school councilor (whilst I am an ikan bilis in the competitive pool of talents).
Even back then, without knowing each other in person at all, I knew we have met the previous lives...
In this life, repeatedly our paths have crossed without either of us knowing at all (e.g. we came from the same batch same school, we both are devoted Buddhists, spending months in meditation retreats, under the same spiritual and meditation teachers, both adore Yukie Nishimura's music for its spiritual energies etc.)
One day I decided to write to him to tell him he is an "old friend of mine" and he started to introduce Clairvision to me.
As an open-minded spiritual seeker of truth, I am open to any concept and technique so long it is positive and deliver results. I am creative and wise enough to integrate everything I experience and learn to my own growth and advantage. I am of the view that truth is not afraid of revealing and subjecting itself to scrutiny and cross-referencing. Truth comes in different forms, flavors and languages; conventional boundaries are just superficial. Hence my spiritual practice is not exclusive to any school or denomination.
What Resh described to me about his clairvision experiences over hawker fare at 7 am one morning sounds fascinating to me.
However it wasn't till Jan 2012 was I informed of the intensive 10 day retreat in Hidden Valley (where I heard was full of spiritual energies).
An important point is also my encounter with Danny Louange, a surgeon and Resh's fellow ISIS practitioner. His ability to tune into my space can only come from his ISIS experience (I can tune into his space to know this too haha).
With 2 weeks notice, I made up my mind to go.
In 2 days, I registered, made payment, booked air-ticket, purchased ETA (Australian visa) and packed my bag.
In 2 wks, I went through the Awakening the Third Eye book and 2 Knowledge Tracks (correspondence course materials which typically takes months to finish).
Efficiency is my mandate = D
Despite going alone, I know I have all the spiritual forces with me and gd "old" spiritual friends waiting for me to meet them again.
Just 1 wk before departure, Resh told me his younger brother RenG is joining me. I feel that I would be taken care of. RenG turns out to be my best platonic friend...
On 24th Feb, having to arrive at 7am at Sydney Int. Airport, RenG was kind enough to meet me at Velluto cafe to wait with me for the mini-bus to arrive at 1130am to pick us to Hidden valley.
During the trip, RenG described to me how connected the Aussies are as a people and to nature. His knowledge of plants in OZ (which he says is typical of Aussies) impressed me. He told me about home-grown Eucalytus and Tea tree oil and all the flavorful natural foods I can get in Sydney and asked me to stay 2 full days in Sydney before my return to SG for him to show me to all the great eateries (it turns out that we spent only 1/2 day cos I am just too carried away by the vast nature of Morton national park and the homeliness of cosy Santi Forest Monastery, see stories later).
I am grateful to his hospitality and am excited about what I am about to experience.
RenG under a Eucalytus treeThe bus ride to Hidden valley took 4 hours and passed round Blue Mountains (name due to blue Eucalytus vapor). All-time adorable Michelle (fellow ISIS attendee) took a video of the ride scenery by sticking her cell phone to the window. I hope she is kind enough to send me the video to post it here. Michelle sweetie?? = D
Yes! she responded (26 March):
(1/2 of the original video clip)
The following pictures show the way in from the gates to our sleeping barn:
(taken the next morning with daylight scattered by the mist)
A little digression about our dorms and sanitary facilities:
our dorms do not operate on electricity and they are right in the wilderness with Kangaroos and Wombats:
Gotcha! Wombat!
We have to walk around 10 mins to the WC to shower, pee and poo, so we usually just do pee in the bushes. Environmentally friendly! = P
The shower uses dam water which contains soil and all the minerals. I thought I am gonna get pimple breakout without clean water to wash my face but to my surprise hardly any! And the theory being...? I reckon the minerals in the dam water are actually gd for the skin plus my bodily cells vibrate with positive energies from meditation!
It's cool and low maintenance to be Natural and Spiritual !
Back to the bus ride...
We arrived at 6pm on a scorching hot Friday which makes me kinda regret bringing 1/2 luggage worth of thick clothes. I was told the weather in Hidden Valley fluctuates like the desert's and soon I was about to witness this amazing weather change (within a wk and even within a day!)...
Sunday, March 13, 2011
米兰历险记
这是一则真实的故事。
2000年是我实现欧洲背包旅游的梦想。背包旅程惊喜万分，单在意大利就发生了许多趣事。。。米兰 - 意大利时尚首都，是必到的旅游景点，也是每个女孩儿梦寐以求的购物天堂。
只有设身处地，才知道它果真名副其实。
米兰的诱惑太大了！
上等的意大利服饰及皮革货品凌囊满目。货真价实，许多还是无超所值。
米兰购物的魅力真是无法挡！原本不太注重时尚的我，受到诱惑，也开始兴奋了起来。再说，米兰是我此行的最后一站，口袋里还存有不少零钱，就索性在此全部花完！
于是我便展开了前所未有的狂扫运动!
“阿皮革风衣！天气转凉，有件皮革风衣保暖是再好不过了，买一件吧！”
不到五分钟：
“哇！皮革裤带大出销！还是意大利名牌！哇！要买要买！买给爸爸吧！”
再走不到十步：
“不是吧！找遍全西班牙都找不到的吉他大师“巴日欧丝”的著作乐谱竟然在米兰给我找到！”我真是高兴的见牙不见眼！
就这样，这里买东，那里买西，这里花一小时，那里呆两小时，正有如中邪，不由自主，疯狂的购物起来。
这时，我旅游同伴提醒：“盈芬，我的班机先起飞，我得先回旅店收拾行李，你要更我一起回去吗？”
“哈！那么快！我还有很多东西要买也！不如你先走，一路顺风！”
“好，记得你的班机5点钟就起飞，可别忘了!"
“行了！行了！”
我又继续购物。当我再次看手表的时候：“什么！3点10分！天啊！嘿请问请问，这里离飞机场有多远？” 我用我不流利的意大利文。
“最快也要一小时。”
这时我有如被锤子击中，惊慌失措。
我急忙回旅店把购物品塞满李包，这才发现：哎呀！怎么有三大箱行李这么多阿！
没时间了，我拖着行李，飞毛腿般的奔向旅店门口！
“计程车！怎么没有计程车！计程车！” 我简直成个热锅上的蚂蚁！
还好，托我平日做善事的富，不知从何而来，一辆计程车闪电般的在我面前出现。
自动门打开以后，一幅英俊的脸孔带性感的声音迎接我“小姐，机场吗？”
“是！请用你最快速度！重重有赏！”
“我曾是法莱丽跑车的驾驶员。包在我身上！小姐你坐稳了！”
话没说完，计程车便火箭般的奔驰而去！
计程车师傅拐弯，越车的技术一流，还曾不顾交通规则，在反方向的公路上奔驰了一阵。还好他及时返回正道，才没闯上迎面的汽车！
真是让我捏了一把冷汗！
他说他是法莱丽跑车的驾驶员，我一点也不怀疑。
这种情节好像在好莱坞电影上才看得到。我现在竟然是主角！太兴奋了！
喂！紧张时刻还能做白日梦，真是的！
“小姐，到了！”
啊！才40分钟！是原本车程时间的三分之二！
我太感动了！把大部分的意大利现钱都给他！“谢谢你老兄！有缘再见！”
时间只剩40分钟了。
登记处的小姐看了我的机票，紧皱着眉头说；“怎么那么迟？你是最后一位了! 还超重！我得罚你10万立拉！”
“好好好，你说的是！”
她赶紧让我登机，我是感激万分。
随后，我直往机舱飞驰。只见机舱内一双双冷眼盯视着我。我苦笑。找到座位后便钻了进去。
哈！终于可以歇息了！
事后感言：
嗨！不懂得节制的结果！
那是11年前贪玩的我，和现在截然不同，你们想也想不到吧！
经一事长一智吧！
(不过，还真的蛮好玩的！= P）
练瑜珈的好处
这是一项现场示范。您可在此看录影
大家好，我是一名合格的瑜珈导师, 今晚我想与大家分享练瑜珈的好处。
请问在座各位，什么是瑜珈？（运动？很好！再来。。。）很好！大家都答得很好。
瑜珈不仅是一项生理运动，它还是一门情绪管理技能，有医疗作用，还能提升智慧，是一门全方面的保健训练。更正确地说，瑜珈是一种生活方式，我们如要真正受益，是得把瑜珈融入与我们的生活当中。
“瑜珈” 这两个字来自凡文，意思是 “将身，心与气结何一起”。
瑜珈的理念是：我们在做每一件事时，如能集中精神，并用节律的呼吸调理心情，事情必能做得很成功。
练习瑜珈运动就是为了练习将身，心与气结何一起。此外，每项运动还有它的功效或医疗作用。我在这里为大家做些示范：
我们大家都是讲员，都希望自己的嗓子宏亮。秘诀就是：用腹部呼吸。
在吸的时候，把气吸入丹田，丹田胀满，腹部也就会膨胀。在呼的时候，刻意把腹部缩小，气就很自然地从丹田排出。这就是腹部呼吸。
练习时将手掌靠在腹部，以观察腹部的起伏。有节律地吸3下，呼6下。
来，大家跟我一起做：吸3下，呼6下。来，观察腹部的起伏，吸3下，呼6下。
很好，请大家回家继续地练习！
接下来我要介绍另一项瑜珈运动。都市人的工作大都是在电脑面前，所以往往有气血不循环的问题。在这，我想给大家示范一项比游泳跑步更有效的气血循环运动。它还有一个妙处：你只需 2 尺长，半尺宽的空间和一张瑜珈垫，这运动便随时随地，即可派上用场！
因为时间有限，很遗憾的我只能示范，不能为大家分析它的步骤。有兴趣者，请在散会前向我拿电话号码！
我开始示范啦 。。。
这是一环。每日坐上12环，保证你无病无痛，精神百倍，身材苗条，容光焕发！
再请问在座各位，有没有情绪低落的时候？有吧？大家都有吧！有没有精神不能集中的时候？都有吧！
好！这是献给大家的：树公公!
来，大家站起来，学我做树公公：在视平线，选择一个集中点。单脚站立，用手将另一支脚板靠在小腿或大腿旁。确保身体笔直，不倾向任何一方。吸3下，呼6下。吸3下，呼6下。平稳以后，双手合十，往上延升，确保手靠在耳朵旁。吸3下，呼6下。有节律地，缓缓地呼吸，吸3下，呼6下。吸3下，呼6下。来，大家维持5 秒钟：5，4，3，2，1。
非常好，请大家回家积极地练习！
听了那么多练瑜珈的好处，大家是否也想学呢？
请拨 +65 8 3221 659 或邮电 dhammika.ang@gmail.com 与我联系！
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
故事 - 成功的秘诀
在一条河流的岸边，一个不起眼的角落里，有一位老人，风雨不改，每早都来捕鱼。
老人以非常熟练的技巧，在河岸插上了几根钓杆。他心平气和，认真地放下鱼线。没一会儿工夫，那几根钓杆都不停地摆动。当他快速地收线时，一条条活泼乱跳的鱼儿就上钩了，当中还有几条一两公斤重的大鱼呢！
老人的捕鱼技巧，引起人们的注意。有人想向他偷师，却是偷鸡不着反失一把米。老人也不贪心，捕捉满一蓝的鱼儿后，便骑上铁马，快快乐乐，吹着口哨，回家去了！
有一位过路的商人，对老人捕鱼的技术非常赞叹，便上前夸扬他，想知道他如何这么成功。老人很谦虚，也很乐意的分享：“噢，我已有二十年的钓鱼经验。再说我对周遭环境及水流的动静，观察入微。就这样，我能准确的断定，鱼儿在何处！”
商人认为老人这般智慧，如不加以发挥，简直是埋没人才。他建议老人扩张事业，还为他买了艘小船。老人乐意尝试，就接受了商人的建议。
老人每早风雨不改，划着小船到河上捕鱼。由于他经验丰富，往往都满载而归。
商人看到老人这番成绩，更是赞叹不已。他认为老人不但有智慧，而且很有财气，于是便打算与老人合作。他大事布局一番以后，便向老人建议：“首先，让我们购置一艘大船。只要经营妥当，大船一出海，总比我们现在的小船收获多上好几倍。”
老人坦让地回答：“噢，然后呢？”
商人口沫横飞地接着说：“这些满满的收获都是金银珠宝呀！我们又能买上多几艘大船，进一步扩张我们的事业！”
老人又问：“哪，然后呢？”
“然后收获当然更大啦！我们还能为公司挂牌。”
“然后呢？”
“接着就是垄断市场！到时我们可是不愁吃呀不愁穿，有名有利！”
老人微笑，再次问：“然后呢？”
“然后？当然是退休！过着悠悠闲闲的生活，做我们喜欢做的事啦!”
“这不就是我现在在做的事吗？”
朋友们，这个故事在这里告诉我们，成功的秘诀之一就是活在当下。一直忙碌追逐未来快乐的人，往往看不到也感受不到眼前已拥有的幸福！
老人接着说：“更何况，小河与大海捕鱼看似相同，却是两种不同的领域。我没有大海捕鱼的经验与知识，怎么会做出同样的成绩呢？我们要知道自己的长处与短处，要在自己擅长的领域发展，才会有成果。
“年轻人，有梦想固然是好，但我还得提醒一点：如果野心太大，克制不了贪念时，不只财物损失，往往还会失去我们做事原本的目的。”
这时，商人如梦初醒，对老人的敬佩是更上一层！
您可在此下摘录音
老人以非常熟练的技巧，在河岸插上了几根钓杆。他心平气和，认真地放下鱼线。没一会儿工夫，那几根钓杆都不停地摆动。当他快速地收线时，一条条活泼乱跳的鱼儿就上钩了，当中还有几条一两公斤重的大鱼呢！
老人的捕鱼技巧，引起人们的注意。有人想向他偷师，却是偷鸡不着反失一把米。老人也不贪心，捕捉满一蓝的鱼儿后，便骑上铁马，快快乐乐，吹着口哨，回家去了！
有一位过路的商人，对老人捕鱼的技术非常赞叹，便上前夸扬他，想知道他如何这么成功。老人很谦虚，也很乐意的分享：“噢，我已有二十年的钓鱼经验。再说我对周遭环境及水流的动静，观察入微。就这样，我能准确的断定，鱼儿在何处！”
商人认为老人这般智慧，如不加以发挥，简直是埋没人才。他建议老人扩张事业，还为他买了艘小船。老人乐意尝试，就接受了商人的建议。
老人每早风雨不改，划着小船到河上捕鱼。由于他经验丰富，往往都满载而归。
商人看到老人这番成绩，更是赞叹不已。他认为老人不但有智慧，而且很有财气，于是便打算与老人合作。他大事布局一番以后，便向老人建议：“首先，让我们购置一艘大船。只要经营妥当，大船一出海，总比我们现在的小船收获多上好几倍。”
老人坦让地回答：“噢，然后呢？”
商人口沫横飞地接着说：“这些满满的收获都是金银珠宝呀！我们又能买上多几艘大船，进一步扩张我们的事业！”
老人又问：“哪，然后呢？”
“然后收获当然更大啦！我们还能为公司挂牌。”
“然后呢？”
“接着就是垄断市场！到时我们可是不愁吃呀不愁穿，有名有利！”
老人微笑，再次问：“然后呢？”
“然后？当然是退休！过着悠悠闲闲的生活，做我们喜欢做的事啦!”
“这不就是我现在在做的事吗？”
朋友们，这个故事在这里告诉我们，成功的秘诀之一就是活在当下。一直忙碌追逐未来快乐的人，往往看不到也感受不到眼前已拥有的幸福！
老人接着说：“更何况，小河与大海捕鱼看似相同，却是两种不同的领域。我没有大海捕鱼的经验与知识，怎么会做出同样的成绩呢？我们要知道自己的长处与短处，要在自己擅长的领域发展，才会有成果。
“年轻人，有梦想固然是好，但我还得提醒一点：如果野心太大，克制不了贪念时，不只财物损失，往往还会失去我们做事原本的目的。”
这时，商人如梦初醒，对老人的敬佩是更上一层！
您可在此下摘录音
Monday, December 6, 2010
我的人生目标
身为一名成功学／软技能培训员 （life-coach），我的主要任务就是帮助学员确认并达到他们的人生目标。目标明确是成功道路上最为关键的第一步。人生目标明确的人，富有自信，生命力，自我推动力；生活过地充实而不迷茫，；碰到挫折时，他们还能借此锻炼自己，好不乐观！人生目标明确的人，自己受益，也正面地影响他周兆的人。所以，要成功，目标就得明确。（这是为什么国际讲演会早在作业三就要求演讲目标分明。）
要帮助他人，我当然得以身作则。
我的人生目标是：寻求真理并从事教育工作。
我是怎么确认这个目标呢？
我观察到我从小就常思考生活中的种种问题。我寻找答案的途径先是通过艺术（演讲，舞台剧，音乐，绘画）表达人生，后来觉得物理提供的答案更准确客观。在大学就读物理系时又碰到了佛学, 认为它与科学的发现十分符合。至今，对我而言，还是佛学最能解答生活中的问题，是最直接最有说服力最深入透彻的理论。（对许多认识佛学的人来说，真正的佛学并不是我们一般理解的宗教 - 因为它毫无麻木崇拜神灵的信念 - 而是个生活哲学，生活艺术）。
要寻求真理，只有经过分享知识与心得，理解才会更深一层， 从而也学到更多东西。这一点同时加上我比较善于正面影导他人，毕业以后我就开始对教育充满热忱。
寻求真理与教育是最佳搭档。 他们是我生命中最大的喜悦与满足感。他们是我的人生目标。
现在我给大家具体的说明我是如何实践我的人生目标。
认识了佛学以后，我学习了禅修与瑜伽。这两种利器有助于维持我的教育工作。怎么说呢？我从事教育工作已十年了。每早上讲堂前，我都会做个半小时的禅修与瑜伽，这是为了集中精神与充电，以备有足够正面的能量影导我的学员，应付一天即将面临的种种挑战。下课回家后，我又做上一小时的禅修与瑜伽，这是为了松懈身心，回顾一天所发生的事 （感恩他人对我的好，反省自己做错的事，提醒自己造福人群），更重要的是，学习放下，路才能走得更长远。
工作时间以外，除了运动，便是阅读，看纪录片，做数学题，学习语言或弹乐器。他们都有助于锻炼分析思考能力， 是寻求真理的必需。
一年当中，我还得出国两次， 每次长达一个月。主要目的是让我更贴近真理。
一次出国是背包旅游。增广见闻，体验人生的同时，有机会也会做义务的教育工作。我选择背包而不参加旅行团是因为只有这样才能真正深入民间，认识当地生活情况。我认为要尝尽生活百态， 人生观才能有所突破。
另外一次出国是到世外桃源闭关修炼。闭关修炼就是与世隔绝，静修禅定。这是一门很有效的心灵调养，修炼者的领悟能力也会有所提高。佛陀本身就是通过静修禅定达到涅磐（圆满觉悟的意思）。据我的经验，一个月的静修期最有功效。我们这个胡思乱想的脑啊，需要一段时间静下来以后才能入定（回到当下集中观想一样禅物，这就是禅定的意思）。入定又需要一段时间连续不断，修炼者才能在领悟方面有所突破。所以禅修是得持之以恒的！不过只要是认真的修炼，哪怕时间的长短，修炼者都会看到性格的良性改变，例如，脾气较温和，贪念减少等等。所以只要有心修炼，必有收获！
背包与闭关以后，我又将满满的体验及感触与学生们分享。就这样，既受又施，既分享也学习，寻求真理的道路是多么的充实，快乐。
朋友们，您是不是也想往您的人生多姿多彩，富有满足感呢？今天就确认您的人生目标吧！成功的道路就由此开始。
让我协助您实现您的梦想！
要帮助他人，我当然得以身作则。
我的人生目标是：寻求真理并从事教育工作。
我是怎么确认这个目标呢？
我观察到我从小就常思考生活中的种种问题。我寻找答案的途径先是通过艺术（演讲，舞台剧，音乐，绘画）表达人生，后来觉得物理提供的答案更准确客观。在大学就读物理系时又碰到了佛学, 认为它与科学的发现十分符合。至今，对我而言，还是佛学最能解答生活中的问题，是最直接最有说服力最深入透彻的理论。（对许多认识佛学的人来说，真正的佛学并不是我们一般理解的宗教 - 因为它毫无麻木崇拜神灵的信念 - 而是个生活哲学，生活艺术）。
要寻求真理，只有经过分享知识与心得，理解才会更深一层， 从而也学到更多东西。这一点同时加上我比较善于正面影导他人，毕业以后我就开始对教育充满热忱。
寻求真理与教育是最佳搭档。 他们是我生命中最大的喜悦与满足感。他们是我的人生目标。
现在我给大家具体的说明我是如何实践我的人生目标。
认识了佛学以后，我学习了禅修与瑜伽。这两种利器有助于维持我的教育工作。怎么说呢？我从事教育工作已十年了。每早上讲堂前，我都会做个半小时的禅修与瑜伽，这是为了集中精神与充电，以备有足够正面的能量影导我的学员，应付一天即将面临的种种挑战。下课回家后，我又做上一小时的禅修与瑜伽，这是为了松懈身心，回顾一天所发生的事 （感恩他人对我的好，反省自己做错的事，提醒自己造福人群），更重要的是，学习放下，路才能走得更长远。
工作时间以外，除了运动，便是阅读，看纪录片，做数学题，学习语言或弹乐器。他们都有助于锻炼分析思考能力， 是寻求真理的必需。
一年当中，我还得出国两次， 每次长达一个月。主要目的是让我更贴近真理。
一次出国是背包旅游。增广见闻，体验人生的同时，有机会也会做义务的教育工作。我选择背包而不参加旅行团是因为只有这样才能真正深入民间，认识当地生活情况。我认为要尝尽生活百态， 人生观才能有所突破。
另外一次出国是到世外桃源闭关修炼。闭关修炼就是与世隔绝，静修禅定。这是一门很有效的心灵调养，修炼者的领悟能力也会有所提高。佛陀本身就是通过静修禅定达到涅磐（圆满觉悟的意思）。据我的经验，一个月的静修期最有功效。我们这个胡思乱想的脑啊，需要一段时间静下来以后才能入定（回到当下集中观想一样禅物，这就是禅定的意思）。入定又需要一段时间连续不断，修炼者才能在领悟方面有所突破。所以禅修是得持之以恒的！不过只要是认真的修炼，哪怕时间的长短，修炼者都会看到性格的良性改变，例如，脾气较温和，贪念减少等等。所以只要有心修炼，必有收获！
背包与闭关以后，我又将满满的体验及感触与学生们分享。就这样，既受又施，既分享也学习，寻求真理的道路是多么的充实，快乐。
朋友们，您是不是也想往您的人生多姿多彩，富有满足感呢？今天就确认您的人生目标吧！成功的道路就由此开始。
让我协助您实现您的梦想！
Saturday, July 17, 2010
童年 - My Childhood
童年
您的童年对您有多重要？
对忙碌的都市人来说，童年只不过是个遥远的记忆。
但有些人的童年则造就了他的一生。
麦克杰旬通过 “童年 ”这首歌，倾诉了他所渴望的童年，也让我门知道了他成年的目标就是为了弥补他所谓“ 失去的童年”。
俄国作家高尔基的著作“童年 ”揭露了俄国沙皇时期的黑暗。高尔基的童年虽残酷，却没有使他懦弱，反而把他锻炼得更坚强。
其实一个人的童年美丽也好，残酷也好， 都是我们无法遗忘的过去。
心理学家也证实了，童年在一个人成长过程中扮演着举足 轻重的角色。
以下我愿与大家分享我的童年，以示证明：
我最难忘的儿童故事是 “卖火柴的小 孩”。小时候，每听一次故事，我都哭一次。它让我十分感动。故事是告诉我们世界上有许多不幸的儿童需要我们的爱与关怀。这故事所带来的感动成为了我要帮助世界不幸儿童的人生目标。我志愿成为教师，也是为了要帮助及提拔年轻的一代。
小时候，我很爱阅读，更爱讲故事。当我讲起故事来，我可以滔滔不绝。我认为这样很好娱乐自己也娱乐朋友。记得小学一年级的时候，每当下课的前十分钟，我都会自告奋勇，要求老师让我给同学们讲故事。至今，我小学同学都还记得我所讲的故事呢！
妈妈看我这样爱讲故事，就让我参加联络所主办的儿童华语讲故事比赛（那时正兴起讲华语运动）。我可高兴呢！也没让父母失望，都会捧个奖杯回家。学校老师也看到我对讲故事的热忱，都费尽心思栽培我。每当下课或休息时，同学们都去玩儿了，唯独我在学校的一个角落背故事，练故事。同学们看我这样苦练，都认为我“没有童年”，可我却一点儿都不觉得苦，反而觉得自己的童年很独特，很充实。
老师与同学们看我这样能通过讲故事来分享知识与快乐，都看好我长大成为个教师。事实证明了他们一点儿也没错！
我另一个童年的喜好是音乐。至今，我最爱的儿歌还是“小熊请客” – “欢迎你，欢迎你，老朋友我们欢迎你，看到你来真高兴，小熊，这一包点心送给你。。。”
“小熊请客” 我每天一遍又一遍地重播。我喜爱音乐的程度，说服我父母让我学钢琴。音乐，特别是钢琴，成为了我抒发情绪的管道。从小，钢琴就是我知心好友。只要有不愉快的事儿，向它倾诉以后，心情就会好了起来。我从来不会因情绪影响而用语言伤害他人，都是因为有钢琴这个良伴。我的性格交温和就和我喜爱音乐有关。
一个人的童年在他的生命中很重要。我很感谢父母给我足够的发挥空间，让我的童年多姿多彩，使我对人生充满了信心。比起卖火柴的小 孩，我的童年是天堂。同样一颗无辜幼小的心灵，就因为出生在世界不同的角落，命运就这样截然不同。在享受幸福的同时，我永远也不会忘记这个事实。
珍惜我们的童年，常在生命中保留一分童真， 也不忘了 在世界黑暗的角落里，成千上万的儿童 等待着您 散发爱 与希望的 光芒！
您可在此下摘录音
您的童年对您有多重要？
对忙碌的都市人来说，童年只不过是个遥远的记忆。
但有些人的童年则造就了他的一生。
麦克杰旬通过 “童年 ”这首歌，倾诉了他所渴望的童年，也让我门知道了他成年的目标就是为了弥补他所谓“ 失去的童年”。
俄国作家高尔基的著作“童年 ”揭露了俄国沙皇时期的黑暗。高尔基的童年虽残酷，却没有使他懦弱，反而把他锻炼得更坚强。
其实一个人的童年美丽也好，残酷也好， 都是我们无法遗忘的过去。
心理学家也证实了，童年在一个人成长过程中扮演着举足 轻重的角色。
以下我愿与大家分享我的童年，以示证明：
我最难忘的儿童故事是 “卖火柴的小 孩”。小时候，每听一次故事，我都哭一次。它让我十分感动。故事是告诉我们世界上有许多不幸的儿童需要我们的爱与关怀。这故事所带来的感动成为了我要帮助世界不幸儿童的人生目标。我志愿成为教师，也是为了要帮助及提拔年轻的一代。
小时候，我很爱阅读，更爱讲故事。当我讲起故事来，我可以滔滔不绝。我认为这样很好娱乐自己也娱乐朋友。记得小学一年级的时候，每当下课的前十分钟，我都会自告奋勇，要求老师让我给同学们讲故事。至今，我小学同学都还记得我所讲的故事呢！
妈妈看我这样爱讲故事，就让我参加联络所主办的儿童华语讲故事比赛（那时正兴起讲华语运动）。我可高兴呢！也没让父母失望，都会捧个奖杯回家。学校老师也看到我对讲故事的热忱，都费尽心思栽培我。每当下课或休息时，同学们都去玩儿了，唯独我在学校的一个角落背故事，练故事。同学们看我这样苦练，都认为我“没有童年”，可我却一点儿都不觉得苦，反而觉得自己的童年很独特，很充实。
老师与同学们看我这样能通过讲故事来分享知识与快乐，都看好我长大成为个教师。事实证明了他们一点儿也没错！
我另一个童年的喜好是音乐。至今，我最爱的儿歌还是“小熊请客” – “欢迎你，欢迎你，老朋友我们欢迎你，看到你来真高兴，小熊，这一包点心送给你。。。”
“小熊请客” 我每天一遍又一遍地重播。我喜爱音乐的程度，说服我父母让我学钢琴。音乐，特别是钢琴，成为了我抒发情绪的管道。从小，钢琴就是我知心好友。只要有不愉快的事儿，向它倾诉以后，心情就会好了起来。我从来不会因情绪影响而用语言伤害他人，都是因为有钢琴这个良伴。我的性格交温和就和我喜爱音乐有关。
一个人的童年在他的生命中很重要。我很感谢父母给我足够的发挥空间，让我的童年多姿多彩，使我对人生充满了信心。比起卖火柴的小 孩，我的童年是天堂。同样一颗无辜幼小的心灵，就因为出生在世界不同的角落，命运就这样截然不同。在享受幸福的同时，我永远也不会忘记这个事实。
珍惜我们的童年，常在生命中保留一分童真， 也不忘了 在世界黑暗的角落里，成千上万的儿童 等待着您 散发爱 与希望的 光芒！
您可在此下摘录音
Sunday, July 4, 2010
The Silent Scream
There is a silent scream
Listen with your heart (the base of consciousness)
And you shall hear
There is a silent scream
Why is it here
So fast so furious?
So fast so furious?
Today we are confronted by the gravest challenge that humanity has ever faced - the ecological consequences of our own collective kamma.
Many scientists have now concluded that anthropogenic global warming is a fact and that the survival of the entire ecology and human civilization is at stake.
Runaway global warming is not merely a problem that can be solved by a simple technological fix, but is at its base a deeply moral and even philosophical problem that challenges our ethical integrity, entrenched beliefs and habits.
There has never been a more important time in history to bring the teachings of Buddhism to bear on behalf of all living beings.
It is my belief that to fully address a problem, we have to snip it at its bud. This essay will both identify the fundamental cause of anthropogenic global warming and advocate the Buddhist attitude and lifestyle as a solution to it.
Although the ecological crisis is a problem unknown of in Buddha’s time, various accounts in the Pali Canon serve to instruct of an ideal man-environment relation:
• no spitting, throwing in water and on land (Bhikkhuni Patimokkha)
• respect and appreciate natural environment (poetry of nature in Theragatha; Buddha himself gazed gratefully at the Bodhi tree during the 2nd wk of his enlightenment)
• planting of gardens (aramaropa) and forests (vanaropa) is a meritorious act (Vanaropa sutta, SN)
• no setting fire to forests (Khuddaka Vatthukkhandhaka of Cullavagga pali, King Asoka’s royal decree in RE 5)
It is interesting to note that the Dhamma upholds environmentalism even before the word is invented!
Yet, the human’s role in today’s ecological problem is 2 fold:
• pollution
• depletion of non-renewable resources
In my view, both are manifestations of the 2nd noble truth expounded by the Buddha.
Dukkha-samudaya-ariya-sacca
Buddha expounded in Dhammacakka-pavattana sutta that Dukkha, the unsatisfactory nature of existence, stems from cravings which are further analysed as cravings, hatred and delusion (lobha, dosa, moha). Our ecological emergency is exactly a larger version of this perennial human predicament.
Because of sensual cravings, material desires, attachment to speed and convenience;
because of repulsion to consumer options and lifestyle of the opposite nature;
because of ignorance giving rise to a false sense of self, permanence and luxury, compounded by the negativities of advertising,
we create and consume things of fleeting superficial gratification values but with lasting and irreversible ecological damage.
The best example is the unchecked and excessive burning of non-renewable fossil fuels. Despite being highly inefficient, releasing more heat and pollutant gases than useful energy, humans are still addicted to oil simply because it is readily available, easy to use and to some nations, a highly valued commodity.
To put a halt to this ecological predicament, we need to start by recognizing that we have been slaves to lobha, dosa, moha. We have to make an effort, to the extent of inconveniencing ourselves, to eradicate them. The easiest way is to consciously cultivate their direct opposites: contentment, loving-kindness (metta) and wisdom. I will suggest how to do it.
Panati-pata veramani sikkha padam samadiyami - I undertake the training precept to refrain from taking a life that breathes
Adinna-dana veramani sikkha padam samadiyami - I undertake the training precept to refrain from taking what is not given
The 1st 2 Buddhists precepts serve as good guideline for our ethical integrity towards the environment. In my opinion, they are also the direct anecdotes to dosa (refrain from killing, getting rid of things not to our liking etc) and lobha (refrain from taking things we are not entitled to, taking by force, taking more than necessary etc).
In other words: the 1st 2 Buddhists precepts advise us to live and let live; co-exist in harmony; use in moderation; replenish before depletion.
In the Aganna sutta, it is recorded that greed and over-exploitation led to the depletion of resources. And yet we did not learn from history and still continue doing so. The ways earth’s resources have been exploited (deforestation, unethical rearing and slaughter of animals, depletion of natural fuels, unethical disposure of toxic wastes etc) are already violation of these 2 precepts on the largest possible scale.
The animation of Earth as Gaia, by environmentalist James Lovelock, is precisely to promote this awareness.
Eminent biologists and U.N. reports concur that if humans continue “business-as-usual”, half of all species on Earth will come to extinction within this century. The eco-system being so intricately connected, inevitably, human’s heyday will be neigh too.
Selfishness vs Anatta
When we uphold our ethical integrity well enough, we will start to gain more wisdom. We will realize anatta, non-self, and awaken from the illusion of separateness that motivates us to act against the ecology (and ultimately ourselves).
All things are interconnected and conditioned. As mentioned in the Aganna sutta, the environment changes accordingly when men rely on it for survival. In turn, when the environment becomes sick due to our selfish exploitation of it, we become sick too, because we are part of her.
“He who is skilled in doing good and who wishes to attain that state of calm should act thus… contented, easily supportable, with few burden, simple in livelihood…”- Karaniya-Metta sutta
Ultimately, contentment and simplicity is the highest bliss.
The argument that our economy needs high levels of consumption for growth is unfounded. The current climate condition provides sufficient evidence against it.
From a Buddhist perspective, a sane and sustainable economy would be governed by the principle of sufficiency rather than an ever-increasing abundance of goods that put such a hefty price on our environment. A sustainable economy is one that is in harmony with the biosphere.
As the slogan goes “Reduce, reuse, recycle” and I will add one more to it - RENEW (use renewable energy and material alternatives)!
Conclusion
I will conclude with an example of the extremely low-maintenance lifestyle of monks: turning old robes into mattress into rugs into duster and finally into fillers of wall gaps. Reducing and reusing vinaya style!
A waste is a waste not because it no longer has any use but because its potential uses are wasted!
There is a silent scream
Wise up, act now
The emergency is real!
Thursday, June 17, 2010
My Quotes
Humanity
There are 4 things one needs to know about oneself: beliefs, passions, strengths, weaknesses.
No matter how old we are, there is a child in everyone of us. Bringing out the child in us is crucial because it is a place full of love and wonder.
When we lose faith (trust, confidence) we lose everything.
This body shall die but the legacy of our work lives on.
There are 2 sides in everyone of us - the dark and the bright side; it's entirely OUR CHOICE which side we wanna bring out.
Be the master of our future, not a slave of our past.
In boiling water
The carrot will soften
The raw egg will harden
Only the coffee bean will spread its fragrance
throughout the entire water
Which one will you like to be in this maddening world?
There are only 2 reasons why computers lag: virus and junk; likewise for the degradation of humanity - Purify yourselves with ethical immunity and a simple life!
Wisdom without compassion is of no use; compassion without wisdom will be abused.
Cowardice breeds injustice.
Truth
(for more quotes, read my article "On Truth")
Truth is liberating and liberation is the highest peace and happiness.
The different disciplines are just different windows to the same truth.
Truth never lies, or beats around the bush.
Education
To inspire and be inspired.
Education is the only way to salvage humanity.
Education should be empowering and is the only way to break any vicious cycle.
We truly learn only from our own mistakes.
Schools should be the places to make mistakes.
Love is the language of Education.
Mental Discipline
The hardest problem often has the simplest solution; the simplest solution often is the hardest to practise.
If you want it bad enough, you will do it good enough.
When you start doing things with conditions and expectations is when you should stop doing them.
The wise makes the best of what they have; the fools only complain.
The mind of a wise is flexible, the mind of a fool is fixed.
Multitasking breeds scatterbrains.
Anger is the defense of weakness.
A lot of things in our lives are not necessary.
Environmentalism
When you protect Mother Earth, she will protect you too.
Ask not what you should get but what you can give.
When you wait it may be too late.
Be the source of positive energies.
My Sources of Inspirations:
My life is my message - Gandhi
Live like you were to die tomorrow; learn like you were to live forever - Gandhi
Be the change you want to see - Gandhi
Always take the middle path - Buddha
All things are impermanent, strive on diligently - Buddha
My teaching is not to come and believe but to practise – Buddha
When you do good, people will still blame you, do good anyway - Mother Theresa
Don’t do unto others what you won’t do unto yourself – Jesus
Your mind makes your reality
Live and let live
Teach by example
First thing first
One thing at a time
There are 4 things one needs to know about oneself: beliefs, passions, strengths, weaknesses.
No matter how old we are, there is a child in everyone of us. Bringing out the child in us is crucial because it is a place full of love and wonder.
When we lose faith (trust, confidence) we lose everything.
This body shall die but the legacy of our work lives on.
There are 2 sides in everyone of us - the dark and the bright side; it's entirely OUR CHOICE which side we wanna bring out.
Be the master of our future, not a slave of our past.
In boiling water
The carrot will soften
The raw egg will harden
Only the coffee bean will spread its fragrance
throughout the entire water
Which one will you like to be in this maddening world?
There are only 2 reasons why computers lag: virus and junk; likewise for the degradation of humanity - Purify yourselves with ethical immunity and a simple life!
Wisdom without compassion is of no use; compassion without wisdom will be abused.
Cowardice breeds injustice.
Truth
(for more quotes, read my article "On Truth")
Truth is liberating and liberation is the highest peace and happiness.
The different disciplines are just different windows to the same truth.
Truth never lies, or beats around the bush.
Education
To inspire and be inspired.
Education is the only way to salvage humanity.
Education should be empowering and is the only way to break any vicious cycle.
We truly learn only from our own mistakes.
Schools should be the places to make mistakes.
Love is the language of Education.
Mental Discipline
The hardest problem often has the simplest solution; the simplest solution often is the hardest to practise.
If you want it bad enough, you will do it good enough.
When you start doing things with conditions and expectations is when you should stop doing them.
The wise makes the best of what they have; the fools only complain.
The mind of a wise is flexible, the mind of a fool is fixed.
Multitasking breeds scatterbrains.
Anger is the defense of weakness.
A lot of things in our lives are not necessary.
Environmentalism
When you protect Mother Earth, she will protect you too.
Ask not what you should get but what you can give.
When you wait it may be too late.
Be the source of positive energies.
My Sources of Inspirations:
My life is my message - Gandhi
Live like you were to die tomorrow; learn like you were to live forever - Gandhi
Be the change you want to see - Gandhi
Always take the middle path - Buddha
All things are impermanent, strive on diligently - Buddha
My teaching is not to come and believe but to practise – Buddha
When you do good, people will still blame you, do good anyway - Mother Theresa
Don’t do unto others what you won’t do unto yourself – Jesus
Your mind makes your reality
Live and let live
Teach by example
First thing first
One thing at a time
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
"When you Know the Breath" – A Personal Experience of Anapanasati(1) in a Poem
When you know2 the Breath
Either general moving in and out3
Or moving sensations about a fixed point4
When you know the Breath
When you know the Breath
Either “see” it or feel it
As long as you know it
When you know the Breath
When you know the Breath
After a period of time
Colored nimita5 will appear
Continue knowing the breath
When you know the Breath
After a longer period of time
Sparkling white nimita will come
And unite with the breath
That’s when you know
You can let go of the breath
And know the nimita
Whole-heartedly
One-pointedly6
NOTES:
1. Anapanasati: Mindfulness of the Breath. The breath is one of the 40 meditation objects prescribed by the Buddha. It is simple enough to practice for all personalities to attain Jhanas (one-pointedness concentration).
2. Know: Meditation is just being mindful. Being mindful is just being aware, just knowing.
3. Moving in and out: this refers to breath inhalation and exhalation, taking the nostrils as the reference point.
4. A fixed point: this fixed point is usually a spot on the skin between the nostrils and the upper lip.
5. Nimita: Pali word for sign (of concentration).
6. One-pointedness, also known as single-minded concentration, is one of the jhanic factors.
For further technical analysis and understanding of meditation, please refer to a reliable Samatha Meditation manual for e.g. “Jhanas” by Ven. Dr. H. Gunaratana.
Either general moving in and out3
Or moving sensations about a fixed point4
When you know the Breath
When you know the Breath
Either “see” it or feel it
As long as you know it
When you know the Breath
When you know the Breath
After a period of time
Colored nimita5 will appear
Continue knowing the breath
When you know the Breath
After a longer period of time
Sparkling white nimita will come
And unite with the breath
That’s when you know
You can let go of the breath
And know the nimita
Whole-heartedly
One-pointedly6
NOTES:
1. Anapanasati: Mindfulness of the Breath. The breath is one of the 40 meditation objects prescribed by the Buddha. It is simple enough to practice for all personalities to attain Jhanas (one-pointedness concentration).
2. Know: Meditation is just being mindful. Being mindful is just being aware, just knowing.
3. Moving in and out: this refers to breath inhalation and exhalation, taking the nostrils as the reference point.
4. A fixed point: this fixed point is usually a spot on the skin between the nostrils and the upper lip.
5. Nimita: Pali word for sign (of concentration).
6. One-pointedness, also known as single-minded concentration, is one of the jhanic factors.
For further technical analysis and understanding of meditation, please refer to a reliable Samatha Meditation manual for e.g. “Jhanas” by Ven. Dr. H. Gunaratana.
Friday, May 21, 2010
Destination Clear Blue Sky
Regardless of clouds is the clear blue sky
Absence of clouds is not its condition
A clouded sky, a perspective from Earth
To experience the clear blue sky
Not by clearing clouds from Earth
But by breaking free of its gravity
To raise above the cloud level
Absence of clouds is not its condition
A clouded sky, a perspective from Earth
To experience the clear blue sky
Not by clearing clouds from Earth
But by breaking free of its gravity
To raise above the cloud level
- dedicated in memory of my late teacher Peter Della Santina in 2006
Disentanglement
Untying a knot
The effect is no knot
No knot is not a knot
There is no knot in the first place
The effect is no knot
No knot is not a knot
There is no knot in the first place
- written in 2006
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