Embracing Phenomena and Walking in the Footsteps of Buddha
The Transformative Power of Walking
Emulating Buddha’s Walking Practice
Cultivating Mindful Awareness of the Environment
Reducing Anxiety and Focusing on Solutions
Recognizing the Importance of Lineage Masters in Buddhism
Finding Harmony with Phenomena
In life, we encounter various phenomena that we may like or dislike. For example, air pollution can be a source of discontent. However, it is essential to approach these phenomena with understanding rather than anger. Instead of resisting air pollution, we can adapt by wearing masks and making lifestyle changes to mitigate its effects. By accepting and working with the phenomena around us, we can find greater harmony and peace within ourselves.
The Transformative Power of Walking
Walking holds incredible transformative power. Before embarking on a walk, we may feel heavy and lack enthusiasm. However, after a refreshing walk, we often experience a rejuvenated sense of energy and vitality, resembling a teenager. Engaging in regular walking can bring about positive changes in our physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Emulating Buddha’s Walking Practice
Looking to the life story of Buddha Shakyamuni, we find that he was an avid walker. Unlike riding horses or chariots, Buddha preferred to walk extensively, covering distances ranging from 10 to 30 kilometers per day. There were even instances where he walked as much as 60 to 80 kilometers. Notably, he would often walk with a group of his disciples, sometimes numbering in the thousands. Despite the challenges of managing a large group’s needs for food and water, Buddha and his disciples journeyed from place to place without protest or aggression. Their purpose was to find suitable locations for teaching dharma, demonstrating Buddha’s deep understanding of the environment and his ability to discern auspicious places. Walking as Buddha did can serve as a profound practice in our daily lives.
Cultivating Mindful Awareness of the Environment
Walking mindfully allows us to develop a heightened sense of awareness of our surroundings. By paying attention to our environment, we can avoid clinging to it excessively. Instead of fixating on the negative aspects of our environment, we can adopt a balanced perspective and appreciate the beauty and opportunities it offers.
Reducing Anxiety and Focusing on Solutions
The purpose of teaching these principles is to alleviate anxiety and fear, encouraging a shift in focus from dwelling on problems to seeking solutions. For instance, if faced with cold and darkness, we can dress warmly and wear multiple layers of clothing. As we walk, we can visualize ourselves soaring into the clouds, transforming our experience and mindset. By embracing creative solutions and utilizing practical ideas, we can navigate challenging circumstances more effectively.
Recognizing the Importance of Lineage Masters in Buddhism
The presence of lineage masters is crucial in Buddhism. With a lineage that stretches back 2,900 years to Buddha’s teachings, the benefit of this time-tested tradition becomes evident. While new religions and cults emerge, it is essential to rely on the teachings of Buddha, which emphasize reducing negative thinking and nurturing positive thinking. The teachings of Buddha empower individuals to rely on their own positive thinking, distinguishing Buddhism from other religions that often rely on external beliefs.
By connecting with lineage masters, we gain access to a lineage that has consistently produced beneficial results. Buddhism is not merely an art form but a comprehensive system that guides individuals from suffering in samsara to liberation in nirvana.
In conclusion, embracing phenomena and walking mindfully can lead to profound personal transformation. By finding harmony with the phenomena around us, walking with intention and awareness, emulating Buddha’s walking practice, cultivating mindful awareness of the environment, reducing anxiety through creative solutions, and recognizing the significance of lineage masters, we can enhance our spiritual journey and experience greater peace and fulfillment in life. Let us embrace the teachings of Buddha and integrate them into our daily lives, walking the path of wisdom and compassion.