Ok, I'm not a buddhist in the traditional sense. Rather, like the Buddha himself, I try to comprehend the Four Noble Truths and follow the Eightfold Path.
The Path is really just a guideline for living and has very little to do with the afterlife, etc. Basically, it's the golden rule plus some good common sense: Treat everyone the way you want to be treated and take everything in moderation. Also, endeavour to become both aware and self-aware.
Clearly, I'm paraphrasing here. The Buddha was little more than a wise man who begged his followers not to make a religion out of his teachings. After he died, his followers said, "Hey, let's make a religion out of his teachings." And, so they did.
Idiots, these people.
The Buddha posited Four Noble Truths:
1. Life means suffering.
2. The origin of suffering is attachment.
3. The cessation of suffering is attainable.
4. There is a path to the cessation of suffering - namely, the Eightfold Path.
So, here's a breakdown of the actual Eightfold Path:
(The first two relate to Wisdom)
- Right View: To see and understand things are they actually are.
- Right Intention: A commitment to ethical and mental self-improvement.
(The next three refer to Ethical Conduct)
- Right Speech: Words can break or save lives, make enemies or friends, start war or create peace.
- Right Action: Refers to deeds that involve bodily actions. Don't kill, don't steal, etc.
- Right Livelihood: One should earn one's living in a righteous way and that wealth should be gained legally and peacefully.
(The last three relate to Mental Development)
- Right Effort: Misguided effort distracts the mind from its task, and confusion will be the consequence.
- Right Mindfulness: The controlled and perfected faculty of cognition.
- Right Concentration: A state where all mental faculties are unified and directed onto one particular object.
There are some really good Buddha quotes, but if you've never studied the history of the Buddha (not Buddhism), they're probably not as interesting. For instance:
"Teach this triple truth to all: A generous heart, kind speech, and a life of service and compassion are the things which renew humanity."
Few people realize that the Buddha was born a prince. He gave up his royal heritage for a life of asceticism . Eventually, that life of forced misery led to his enlightenment (or "awakening") after which he developed his own philosophy. It's a really interesting story...
So, there you have it. Now, back to SYTYCD! What a great night of dancing!! It was really sad watching people have their dreams smashed upon the rocks of reality, but the people who make it through the fire are going to be better for it. This season looks to be their best so far! The tall, blond gymnast is my early pick. She's ridiculously beautiful, graceful and limber, not to mention a fantastic lyrical/ballet dancer.
Tomorrow night is the final elimination to reveal the top 20 (10 guys and 10 girls). I can't wait to see if my girl makes it through!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
1 comment:
Now that's the way to do it! I was so intrigued by your religious beliefs that I didn't even mind the short blurb about your gay show. I even read it with enthusiasm, like I was giving a well-deserved tip to a street performer who just juggled his little heart out.
You've inspired me to post about a philosophy I've been reading about. I'll get to work.
Post a Comment