6/10/15
For October, I'll be learning about my Anger. My tools are Pema Chodren's 'Don't Bite the Hook' lectures, and Thich Nhat Hanh's audio book 'Anger: Buddhist Wisdom for Cooling the Flames'.
From 'Don't Bite the Hook'
Shantideva:
v.1 Good works gathered in a thousand ages, such as deeds of generosity, or offerings to the blissful ones, a single flash of anger shatters them.
v. 2 No evil (or hatred) is there similar to anger. No austerity to be compared with patience. Steep yourself, therefore, in patience, and always, urgently with zeal.
V. 3-5 Those tormented by the pain of anger will never know tranquility of mind. Strangers they will be to every pleasure. Sleep departs them; they can never rest.
v. 4-5 Noble chieftains, full of hate, will be attacked and slain by even those who look to them for honours and possessions. From family and friends estranged, and shunned by those attracted by their bounty. Men of anger have no joy, forsaken by all happiness and peace.
Pema Chodron:
Next time you get irked, notice -- are you comfortable? is your state of mind, state of body at ease? are you fueling the flame?
Take this as medicine.... every time you get angry or feel aggression, use that as fuel to choose something different.
questions:
- When I feel anger or irksome feelings rise in me, what is the state of my body and mind?
- Am I able to stop fanning the flames of anger, but cool them with patience?
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