Earth Practice

EARTH PRACTICE

By Ven. Shih Jingang

In the Dhammapada, the Buddha says, “What we are today comes from our thoughts of yesterday, and our present thoughts build our life of tomorrow: our life is the creation of our mind.”

The Covid-19 pandemic has given many millions of people worldwide time to reflect on their lives and habits of thought, speech and action. 

I know quite a few who have found a refuge of peace in their gardens. Cultivating, planting seeds, adding water and nutrients all help in maintaining a healthy garden. They are also a necessary part in taking care of our bodies. But what about the mind? Generosity, ethics, loving-kindness, compassion, meditative concentration and wisdom   are the food for our inner spiritual garden. Without them there is no harvest, no fruit of Awakening, Buddhahood.

Some people have been taking the time to appreciate the beauty and biodiversity of nature, and reflect upon our place in  the interdependent web of life.   Have you noticed more wild animals appearing on the roads, in parks and waterways near where you live? Humans are now in captivity and the animals are reclaiming what is left of their garden.

Now is an opportunity to find and nurture a balance between inner and outer worlds. For the sake of this planet and all sentient beings, may your earth practice be fruitful.



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