​Times of crisis 2 - Waking up

At times of crisis we can gain a whole new perspective on life. This can be very positive. Suddenly our petty concerns or grudges vanish. We develop gratitude for all the things we usually take for granted, our boredom with life vanishes and we wake up. These are all the kind of spiritual qualities the Buddha encourages us to develop. This is why the Buddha trains us to reflect on the uncertainty of life. To keep us awake and resourceful, humble and grateful – to keep us truly alive.

​Also at such times human beings can become incredibly resourceful. This is a way in which the pressure of the crisis develops our minds. There is both ingenuity in this and also humility – the breakthrough in our problem solving can be letting go of our usual high standards and accepting a compromise. This can be very liberating – we realise we have been the slave to standards which have gone beyond what is really needed. This is discovering the renunciant option (which finds its fullest expression in monasticism.)






I offer this for your reflection

Ajahn Kalyāno
http://www.openthesky.co.uk




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