Dosa, Tanha, and Upadana. Aversion, Desire, and Clinging (grasping).
After a recent and minor motorcycle accident, I suffered an injury to my knee and lower back muscles.
The first day after the accident, I decided I could not meditate because it hurt too much to sit on the cushion.
Later that morning, it occurred to me, what if I were really injured or hospitalized. Would I stop meditating because of pain and discomfort?
So I then attempted to sit here in my chair and meditate for a bit. It was not working very well for me.
I decided meditation would have to wait another day or two until my body healed more.
About an hour later, I decided this was not mindful of me at all. I am too attached to this physical body and sensations, and I need to just go sit on the cushion.
Upon doing so, the pains of the body were a constant distraction. And after about 15 minutes or so, I stopped and gave myself kudos for at least trying.
The following evening, I had the chance to be completely alone for a couple of hours and decided to meditate for a while. I spent about 45 minutes on the cushion, and had a wonderful practice.
Without having aversion to the pain, desire to feel better, or any clinging to these physicalities, I simply focused on the breath. The only thing that remained was peace.
Every Saturday, at Blue Lotus Temple, I witness human beings with so many physical and emotional difficulties. Yet each of them picks themselves up and makes their way to attend meditation and hear a dhamma talk. They each do this not only for the self, but with tremendous love and compassion for the rest of the Sangha.
Each and every one of them are my teachers, my Buddha’s.
When we realize that this body is not ours, and see the connectedness we have to each other, the light of peace shines like a powerful beacon through the fog.
I thank each of you for your love, and for this lesson. I see clearly that we all are each others Teachers.
Humbly, I remain your student.
May you be well, happy and peaceful.
Budu saranai
