These basic thoughts woven
into our day can lead to a contemplative, peaceful and more
fulfilling life
Simplicity, Patience and
Compassion: The Three Treasures
by Laura Turner
 |
December 21, 2012
The Day Everything Changes
What Will Happen to You?
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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.
Laura M. Turner is a
15-year veteran fitness instructor, fitness trainer and natural
health practitioner. She hosts
http://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:
http://www.new-body-news.com
December 21, 2012
The Day Everything Changes
What Will Happen to You?
Download Survival Guide!
|
