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Simplicity,
Patience And Compassion: The Three Treasures
Laura Turner
According to
Eastern tradition there are three treasures on the pathway to
enlightenment: simplicity, patience and compassion. At first glance,
such simple ideas. Yet after contemplation one easily recognizes: it’s
these basic thoughts, when woven into our day, that can lead each of us
to a contemplative, peaceful and more fulfilling life.
In this short article then, I invite you to take a page from Eastern
religion: explore the three treasures and become aware of your
relationship to them.
Simplicity
The first treasure: simplicity. Simplicity in thought and action.
According to author Thomas Cleary in his translation of Taoist
Meditation, simplicity leads the seeker on the Way. Simplicity of
thought, he tells us, can often be brought about by silence. And in the
silence, we gain personal wisdom. If finding 10 or 20 minutes each day
to rest quietly or meditate could bring you closer to peace, would you
be more conscientious in devoting this time?
Simplicity of action, however, feels a greater challenge. It involves
priorities and discovering what is truly important. Here’s how I
personally handle this: When I feel overwhelmed by my “to-do list” I
create a game by challenging myself to let go of everything I can do
without. Then, I remove as many things as I can from my list. What I am
left with are those items of greatest importance. I devote as much time
necessary to completing each task with joy and precision.
Try it now. What can you remove from the task list today that could
bring you closer to simplifying your life? What will you place your
attention on?
Patience
Treasure number two: patience. Yes, the virtue. And just like
simplicity, it is also a challenge to move slowly through tasks until
they have been completed or to remain calm when dealing with someone
outrageous. I’ve found that we are often mirror images of others and
attract to us parts of ourselves. This is important to note as it could
manifest positive or negative events, depending on mindset. In this
light, Inalya Vanzant reminds us to keep thoughts pure. She tells us to
remind ourselves: "I will gain more understanding when I realize... how
I interpret what comes at me is a reflection of what is in me." When
faced with a situation requiring patience ask yourself: Am I casting a
positive image?
In this framework, more of my favorite wisdom comes from author Richard
Carlson in his new book: Easier Than You Think. In it he explains, when
we are with someone, we should make every effort to pay expert attention
to that person. This engages them and often can diffuse a stressful
situation by simply making them feel important. With this in mind, the
next time you engage in conversation or even a casual chat with someone:
ask yourself if you are creating a role model's image.
Compassion
Compassion, the third treasure. I often liken it to empathy. Although we
cannot always know directly what it is like to be another, we can value
everyone’s need to be heard. Conflict or anger is often a cry for help.
We simply need to be aware of our circumstances in effort to create
compassion in our lives. We will be called to help others as we become
more enlightened vessels of peace. Events will come to us as a
reflection of what we need to heal in ourselves.
Thomas Cleary reminds us we should always act in sincerity. In Taoist
Meditation he writes: “to choose what is good and hold onto it firmly is
a matter of sincerity.” Compassion, as well, challenges us to define
what is most important to us; a reoccurring theme throughout the three
treasures. To me, this involves being awake and aware in our lives to
see the ways in which we are available to give sincerity and service.
Today, be aware of the ways spirit is working through you. Remember: You
are the vessel of peace for others and the world. I believe, the more we
become vulnerable to trust and open ourselves to sincerity, the more we
can allow compassionate behavior into our lives and become enlightened
each and every day.
In Conclusion:
It is my wish these positive ideas enhance your life and bring you
peace. Be conscious every day of the messages you are receiving, the
people you meet, your experiences. It is amazing the way these simple
ideas can enrich your life exponentially. Go forth then, and be aware.
Place your attention on the three treasures: in the darkness they will
bring you light.
Article Source:
www.articlerich.com
Laura
M. Turner is a 15-year veteran fitness instructor, fitness trainer and
natural health practitioner. She hosts
www.body-and-beauty.com a website dedicated to
inspiring and educating others about the benefits of creativity, natural
health and fitness. Check out Laura's latest book Spiritual Fitness: The
7-Steps to Living Well or subscribe FREE to her online magazine The New
Body News and Wellness Letter:
www.new-body-news.com
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