Why are we lonely? - Ajahn Brahm

The reason people are lonely is not because there is no one else there, the reason is because they don’t like themselves, they are not at peace with themselves, and when no one else is around, they with their enemy, themselves.

Turtle with a mustache

Defining Mindfulness

Human beings have been imparting and practicing mindfulness skills as a means of easing psychological suffering for at least 2,500 years (Teasdale, 1999). While the practice is strongly tied to the teachings of the Buddha, others have pointed out that mindfulness practices date back thousands of years before the Buddha's time, with roots in ancient yogic practices (Miller, Fletcher, & Kabat-Zinn, 1995). Although mindfulness originated from Eastern spiritual teachings, the practice of relating to one's experience in the present moment with acceptance and full awareness is by no means limited to a particular religious tradition. By its very nature, mindfulness is a mode of awareness that is universally accessible in that anyone can learn it and practice it (Bishop et al., 2004).

Symbols, forms and conventions, by Ajahn Sumedho

The Buddhist monk’s robe—because one is wearing it — is for mindfulness.

Visakha's Profound Wisdom (Vinaya 1:290-294)

Visākhā was granted, eight boons by the Buddha: that as long as she lived, she be allowed to give robes to the members of the Order for the rainy season; food for monks coming into Sāvatthi; food for those going out; food for the sick; food for those who wait on the sick; medicine for the sick; a constant supply of rice gruel for any needing it; and bathing robes for the nuns. 

The Buddha asked her what benefits she expected for herself as a result of her generosity. Her answer shows how profoundly she had understood the relationship between acts of virtue and inner mental training. She replied:

Who can create Peace?

Vipassana [mindfulness] meditation class @SABS Part 3

Lesson 3, March 1, 2013.

Bro. KC gave a brief recap of the Lesson 2 Meditation class which was held on 1/Feb/13. Followed by sitting meditation practice, yogis' sharing on practice, Bro. KC's comments/guidance on yogis' practice and Q & A pertaining to the practice.  Dealing with secondary objects other than those mentioned in previous lessons whilst doing sitting meditation?

Buddhist Biology

David Barash explores science, religion and meaning of life in ‘Buddhist Biology’ by Molly McElroy, University of Washington, Nov 21, 2013. “Buddhist Biology: Ancient Eastern Wisdom Meets Modern Western Science” was published in December 2013 by Oxford University Press. Washington, DC (USA) - David Barash, a University of Washington psychology professor, is an evolutionary biologist, unapologetic atheist, and self-described Jewbu. In his latest book, “Buddhist Biology: Ancient Eastern Wisdom Meets Modern Western Science,” Barash examines the overlap between Buddhism and biology.

Practicing Forgiveness/Wrong Doing

From the "Manual of Excellent Man" by Ven.Ledi Sayadaw

"A deed undertaken out of desire for fame is low. One undertaken with desire for the fruits of merit is moderate. One undertaken with the clear understanding that it is the custom of the Noble Ones is superior." ~ Visuddhimagga