At times we are confronted with circumstances that require us to take some form of action. We may find ourselves confronted with the question, “How do I know if I should act….and how do I know what actions are skillful?
These are good questions, but rather than look at what or how, first turn to the question of why; look at the motivation that is urging you to act. What state of mind gives birth to the desire to act? What is compelling you to act? Does your mind hold fear, anger, greed, or attachment? Have you considered the potential impact of your action?
If you act from suffering, then your act will likely result in more suffering for yourself and for others. If you are experiencing any form of suffering, then it is crucial to deal with this directly, before acting.
You can avoid a considerable amount of suffering by experiencing your feelings fully without acting them out. Also, examine your beliefs and your mind state before you act. It’s important to be completely honest.
I am not suggesting that all your problems are entirely your fault and that no one else is responsible. Others can affect your life circumstances, but you are always responsible for your response to these conditions.
Getting lost in blame and fault-finding is a formula for suffering. If you act out of resistance to suffering, you will simply create more suffering---for yourself and for others. This cycle of resistance, suffering, and more resistance can be virtually endless. (This is samsara: the endless cycle of suffering that feeds continuous rebirth.) Before you act, ask yourself, “Do I wish to perpetuate suffering or to dissolve it?.” After seeing your mind state clearly and thoroughly you may decide that nothing needs to be done.
If you find that it is necessary to take action, then first ask yourself, “Is this the right time to act?” Then ask yourself, “Am I are the right person to do this.” If it is yours to do, then when it’s time to act, do it decisively and then release all attachment to the outcome.
This is rarely easy, but if you’re willing to do this, it will open you to your innate wisdom that will guide you to the optimal outcome-- which may be even better than you expected. If you can join others who are doing the same, then you will collectively have access to a wealth of wisdom and compassion. This process can be an immensely powerful force for change!
History shows that the deepest and most enduring changes arise not from hatred but from wisdom and from love. (EGS Jesus of Nazareth; Siddhartha Gautama; Mohandas Gandhi; Martin Luther King; Nelson Mandela). Love can be very fierce in its confrontation with oppression, but always that fierceness is a skillful means rather than a desire to harm or avenge. Notice how you feel when you act. Be true to yourself and in integrity with your own soul.
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