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Teacher: Rodney Smith
Date: 2003-06-30
Venue: Seattle Insight Meditation Center
Series
- The Five Spiritual Faculties 2003-05-05
- The Seven Factors of Enlightenment 2005-04-26
- The Five Spiritual Faculties 2008-02-26
Homework
What value does focused presence have on your life? Can you think of any activity that a steady mind does not enhance? What external and internal conditions cultivate this steadiness? Notice the effect of stimulation on your stability of mind. Notice the effect of argument and controversy. Is there a way to move your life towards greater clarity?
This week investigate the relationship between simplicity and your ability to focus. As an experiment, try to eliminate any distractions that are not absolutely necessary. Plan the week in advance so everything nonessential can be postponed. Deliberately slow down so you always know what you are doing while you are doing it. What effect does the speed of your day have on your clarity? Structure the week so you have fewer commitments, fewer auditory and visual distractions, socialize a little less, and have a regular disciplined sitting practice. You may want to extend this week into several weeks. Notice the effects this intentional simplicity has on your stability of mind.
TalkID=746 SeriesID=17,32,38
