What would the Buddha Think?

Some people have never considered that they have a choice about what they think.

They even claim "I couldn't help it" about some of their actions.

It is true that our choices become less and less free if we do not exercise our freedom of will to make choices that lead to greater good and greater inner freedom. Increasingly, we become governed by other people and unconscious drives and motives because we are not aware enough of what is going through our minds. Today's wisdom is from the first chapter of the Dhammapada, and is sometimes called "The Twin Verses." The choices we have about what and how to think are laid out clearly and memorably.

All that we are is the result of what we have thought.

We are formed and molded by our thoughts.

Those whose minds are shaped by selfish thoughts cause misery when they speak or act.

Sorrows roll over them as the wheels of a cart roll over the tracks of the bullock that draws it.

All that we are is the result of what we have thought.

We are formed and molded by our thoughts.

Those whose minds are shaped by selfless thoughts give joy whenever they speak or act.

Joy follows them like a shadow that never leaves them.

"She insulted me, he struck me, she cheated me, he robbed me:"

Those caught in resentful thoughts never find peace.

Those who give up resentful thoughts surely find peace.

Hatred does not cease by hatred at any time.

Hatred ceases by love. This is an unalterable law.

There are those who forget that death will come to all.

For those who remember, quarrels come to an end.

Those who live only for pleasure, who eat intemperately, who are lazy, weak,

and lack control over their senses are like a tree with shallow roots.

As a strong wind uproots such a tree, temptation will throw such a person down.

But those who live without craving pleasure, who eat temperately and control their senses,

who are persevering and firm in faith, are like a mountain.

As a strong wind cannot uproot a mountain,

attacks and adversity cannot overthrow such a person.

Whoever claims to be spiritual but is self-willed, speaks untruthfully, and lacks self-control

is not worthy of trust or spiritual authority.

But those who have vanquished self-will, who speak the truth, and have mastered themselves,

are firmly established on the spiritual path and are worthy of trust and respect.