In a hectic and distracting life, filled with temptations pulling our attention outward, we may hope that meditation alone will maintain our mental health and solve all our problems, which is not realistic. Focusing solely on meditation without addressing the turbulence in our daily lives may not yield the expected outcomes.
Luang Phor Dhammajayo devised an easy and practical set of ten guidelines for daily life known as “Ten Items of Homework”.
(This article explains the first two items)
1. When you return home, share the good things you did today with your family.
If you practice doing this homework. while you come out to work You will look for opportunities to do good things. When you do it, you will feel happy. And on the way back home you will try to compile all the good stories you have done to share with your family. That makes your mind immersed in happiness throughout the day. This kind of mind is more prepared to be still than a confused mind.
You might wonder why it’s okay. It’s because nothing is lost, and goodness is like pure energy. Whoever appreciates our kindness, even if they don’t fully understand or acknowledge it, their mind will be clear and joyful along with you.
Initially, when you speak like this, some may feel good, while others may be confused. you persistently share your goodness until they become accustomed to your words. Eventually, they may reflect and realize that doing good brings a bright and joyful mind. One day, they may recall who inspired them to have a brighter mind which will be an opportunity to invite them to do good together. Or you become a role model themselves. When they do something good, they may share it with you.
In cases where family members have negative habits, they might think we are strange or wonder who influenced you to be like this. They may even come to the center to see what we are doing, curious about the teachings of monks. This could be an opportunity for them to join and meditate together, even if it initially seems confusing. After a while, they may feel and understand it on their own.
Therefore, sharing the good things with family is something you should do, even if you fear a negative response or feel embarrassed. It’s a way to add goodness and spread positive energy to yourself and your family without them realizing it. Eventually, everything in the family will improve, and the existing happiness of everyone will attract more good things into the home.
2.Take daily notes on the results of your meditation practice.
This is a mindfulness exercise to observe how your meditation practice results. Are you making progress?
Each day can bring different emotions, influencing your meditation. If you record your experiences daily, you’ll see why some days your meditation is better than others, or why some days you struggle.
Regardless of the daily outcomes of your meditation, it’s okay. Keep recording frequently, and soon your mind will settle naturally. Reviewing your practice allows you to identify weaknesses, make adjustments, and track the results of your modifications. You’ll start understanding what causes your meditation to be either good or challenging.
Since, it is a practice of specifically observing your mind, when you notice something impacting you, you’ll gain insights. This helps you plan your meditation sessions and personal development more accurately. With consistent observations, you’ll progress faster and naturally achieve a calm and clear mind.
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