The Buddist Path to Peace - Post #2 Impermanence

In studying the Buddhist Path to peace one learns that all form is constantly in flux, constantly changing. We call this change emptiness because it is not fixed. It is not permanent... therefore it is impermanent... always changing... always empty.

As we sit and see the constant movement and change in our minds - we see the mind attempt to become fixated on something, but we can't hold on to it, we learn to relax and let go. This creates fluidity and flexibility in us and ultimately shows us just who we are.

When you sit you do nothing but watch the rising and falling of all phenomena... of thoughts, of sensations, of feelings. You don't try to hold on to any particular thought - you do not accept or reject anything that comes up... you simply let it go. This is called choiceless awareness.

To accept that there is nothing that is permanent is one of Buddha's central teachings. Life is like a river, constantly flowing, constantly changing. We must try to stop swimming up stream.... stop wanting something that we can't have and having something we don't want. This is what keeps us from really being free! Constant desiring and seeking.

Stop fighting life and learn to go with it. As soon as we stop struggling, the pain will cease too. Don't resist pain, discomfort and fear. This keeps you isolated, separated and in a constant state of chaos. Accept that pain, discomfort and fear are part of this life. But these are only part of it... when we can stop resisting and start accepting or changing our situations then we will move closer and close to that illusive Peace!

Remember this: nothing is forever, so make the most of what is good and accept, move past or change what is bad! This is the path to peace!

Close your eyes and listen to this chant. If you can still your mind, you will feel peace begin to seep in! Say to yourself: I am at peace... right here... right now!

In depth: Interpretation of the Gayatri Mantra

Western interpretation of mantra

by Sir William Jones:

"Let us adore the supremacy of that Divine Sun, the Godhead, who illuminates all, who recreates all, from whom all proceed, to whom all must return, whom we invoke to direct our understanding aright in our progress towards his holy seat."

 Hindu interpretation of mantra

"O God, Thou art the giver of life, the remover of pain and sorrow, the bestower of happiness; O Creator of the Universe, may we receive Thy supreme sin-destroying light; may Thou guide our intellect in the right direction."

 Brahmo interpretation of mantra

"We meditate on the worshipable power and glory of Him who has created the earth, the nether world and the heavens (i.e. the universe), and who directs our understanding.

Stephanie's interpretation of mantra

"Oh, may I remember who I am. I am both creator and created. Let me awaken from this dream and begin to create anew. Let me walk beside myself and enrich all that is and ever will be."