dsaly1969

People find life to be frequently unsatisfactory because we do not understand that nothing exists independently of the interdependent workings of cause and effect. We want things to be as we want them to be and not as they really are. We refuse to acknowledge that things are always changing and not staying the same. We then react out of ignorance, anger, or fear which causes unnecessary suffering for ourselves and others. Knowing this, we must learn to trust in the Buddha, what the Buddha taught, and the community of those who put those teachings into practice. We do this by mindfully reciting Taking Refuge in the Three Treasures: "Buddham Saranam Gacchami. Dhamman Saranam Gacchami. Sangham Saranam Gacchami." throughout the day, as well as the study and application of core Buddhist teachings such as the Four Noble Truths, Three Poisons, Eightfold Path, Three Dharma Seals, Six Worlds, codependent origination, etc. in everyday life. I also find Buddho meditation (using the word Buddho as a mental focus in sitting meditation) and Metta Bhavana (Loving Kindness) to be useful supplementary practices.