"The awakened, he wants nothing from this world and nothing from the next, he is free. The way is not in the sky, the way is in your heart"- BuddhaFor the past couple of years in my life I have been absolutely intrigued with the morals of Buddhism. Studying the Dhammapada and meditating have been a part of my routine and I can gladly say it has changed my perspective. The "Awakened" represents the person who has gone through life humbly and achieves enlightenment. Theoretically we all strive to be among the awakened, and as Buddha says in this particular quote, he desires nothing, therefore there is nothing binding him to the stresses and obligations of the material world. The way I perceive the latter portion of the quote:" ...the way is not in the sky, the way is in your heart", is that we should not look to gods or heavens (being the sky) for happiness or peace, but to find it within our own selves, because we are the only ones that can provide our own peace. I have learned a great deal about what I truly seek out of life after studying Buddhist ways, and that is the peace of mind and utter happiness that comes from loving one's self and the simple surroundings of the life around us. This quote expresses the importance of priorities in life as well as the ties of desire. It implies that desire is the source of struggle in life and that you should be your only priority.
When people listen to my perspective on morals, most of the time they are automatically shutting me out. Quick to tell me what they think but never ready to take in any new ideas. I have no place in telling anyone what they should think, or even suggesting that they open up their own mind, but what I can say is that you don't have to follow anyone, exalt any deity, or give in to any belief to be at peace with yourself spiritually or mentally. I believe that being "free" is being exempt of any unnecessary struggle, any obligating ties, and free of all unsettling unhappiness. Freedom is free, and peace is accessible, you simply have to find the way.
Wow, I never thought of gaining happiness that way; however, I have always believed that in order to make out lives go smoothly and calmly, we must be calm and content on the inside. How we react in the material world is all a manifestation of our internal state. I have always found Buddhism interesting and I greatly respect the people who practice it due to their self-control.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Kristyn, Being raised in a Christian household ive never really been exposed to other ways a thinking or obtaining peace its always been "Call on God" or Call on Jesus he will bring you peace" But as i have matured and been exposed to other religions and ways of thinking Buddhism has interested me and i like the thought of finding the peace within yourself instead of trying to rely on someone or something to give it to you.Great post Angelina
ReplyDeleteI completely agree that happiness can be found through the simple things in life that surround us everyday. Taking in these small things like the sight of a small bird hopping around, or the smell of rain after it has fallen, or even the simple view of a leaf hanging onto a tree can incite calm feelings to anyone willing to take a step back from their busy lives to experience them. I don't actively practice Buddhism but have studied it for quite a while and have found it to be a truly refreshing way of thinking. I find it rather unsettling though, that very few people will be able to follow buddhist ways in this fast paced modern age. I regularly apply buddhist ideas to my life even though I don't follow it completely. It's great to know that other people still look towards new ways of thinking and finding their own happiness. Great post, it was a pleasure to read.
ReplyDelete