Today looks to be one filled with activities as we criss-cross tourist-laden Manhattan and Brooklyn on buses and trains with kids in tow. I have to be honest and admit that, after a week of work, this is the last thing I usually want to do but the spirit of giving and serving has actually begun to creep into my habitual patterns and I am now beginning to be able to see and hold it in a different light.
Yes, the idea of commuting from Manhattan to BK and back with two little ones on trains filled to capacity will most likely never be something I enjoy in itself but seeing this as an opportunity to practice with my defilements and a chance to give my kids my undivided attention is a radical shift from my habitual self-centered and comfort seeking attitude. By simply inclining my mind towards generosity with my time and a willingness to sacrifice comfort I am discovering an infinitely more rewarding way of living the Dhamma in the midst of the household life. What’s more, the kilesas are really being given a run for their money as I put myself in situations that I would normally shrink away from because they were too stressful, anxiety-provoking or difficult.
May we all incline our minds towards self-sacrifice and service for the sake realizing the Dhamma!
Related articles
- Wisdom: The Fruit of Practice. ~ Barry H. Gillespie (elephantjournal.com)
Cattāri Brahmavihārā 
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