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Teacher: Rodney Smith
Date: 2005-08-09
Venue: Seattle Insight Meditation Center
Series
- The Seven Factors of Enlightenment 2005-04-26
Homework
Equanimity is not indifference. It is not pulling back to an emotionally safe area of the mind where life is distant and remote. Equanimity is derived from a stability of mind (Samadhi) created through acceptance (nonreaction) of the situation. We often complain, “This shouldn’t be happening!” What in your life should not be happening? Acceptance simply means being open to what is occurring without resistance. Resistance is often embodied as strong opinions motivated by your need to control. This week recite the mantra, “May I accept things as they are.” and watch your tendency to interfere. Some events need your involvement and others do not. Use the following exercise as a guide: If you are reacting, give the situation space before you act. Take some time out until you can see what desire or fear is motivating your action. What does the situation really need from you? Be patient until you can see around and through your need to control and then act in accordance with a calm mind.
TalkID=642 SeriesID=38
