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[fumanchaw]

When we practice, initially, as a basis we control ourselves, stopping the bad actions which hurt others as much as we can. This is defensive. After that, when we develop certain qualifications, then as an active goal we should help others. In the first stage, sometimes we need isolation while pursuing our own inner development; however, after you

Comments

[dandelow]

That was beautiful, and I love reading the Dalai Lama. I had a question though:

>When we practice, initially, as a basis we control ourselves, stopping the bad actions which hurt others as much as we can. This is defensive.

I'm not sure I understand His Holiness here. Defensive? Isn't it taking a proactive step? I understand that it's not as pro active as helping others or working in society, but how is learning to control yourself and not hurt others defensive?

Any insights? I'd appreciate it.

Thanks a bunch!

Dandie

[whatisis]

my understanding of him is that initially, we take precepts to control ourselves but our motives for taking precepts are defensive. that is, only understanding the reasons for taking precepts, which defend us and others from wrongdoings which harm us or ourselves, that is, protecting ourselves from other people. It feels proactive when you think to yourself actively, "i took precepts, therefore i cannot do this, this, this as a Buddhist" but in actual fact, these actions don't come within, but only come imposed upon us. The only proactivity there is from understanding Buddhism is understanding the reasons for these self-controls and living in society with new feeling and compassion for people regardless of these precepts (ie. not judging non-Buddhists, events, etc) and serving others and self with love and responsibility.

[dandelow]

Ok, I'm beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel with this! I find that often, I have to read these things over and over and little "glimpses" of the Truth peak through to me each time. Both what His Holiness said and your response are revealing their meanings to me slowly. Thank you very much for your insightful comment, it helped me a lot.

I'd be lying if I said I "got" the concept just yet, but I'm on my way now. :)

BTW, I wholly embrace the act of controlling ourselves not to hurt others and to act with compassion and kindness to all. It's the part about how that is defensive rather than pro active that is being tricky at the moment. :)

Thank you so much! And I'm sorry if I sound ignorant.

Dandie

[dandelow]

PS, I copied this passage to my own journal, I hope you don't mind. I gave you credit in the post. If you'd like me to take it down, I certainly will.

Thank you and Peace
Dandie