--- In [email protected], "Dave P" <wookielifeday@...> wrote:
>
> This is another strange question, but I've been watching a lot of Star Trek,
> and there's frequent mentioning of how the Vulcans are not actually
> unemotional, but simply observe their emotions and not let them control their
> actions. Does this sound Zen to anyone here, or am I way off.?
Hi again, Dave. Here is my personal practice in regards to such matters. Take
it or leave it as you choose. IMO, the practical problem
is that we, on the level of ego, are conditioned beings, subject to hate, greed
and delusion. I try to be mindful of my reactions to people,
places and things 24/7. Whenever hate, greed or confusion arises, before
it gains impetus, I recognize it for what it is, then immediately focus
on The Name, Amitabha. By doing this, I disengage from identifying
with the negative mental state and thus deprive the conditioned
response of its motive energy. If one does this long enough, the brain
will rewire itself away from the negative response. After disengaging
from the negative reaction, I make a deliberate attempt to substitute
a positive alternative opposed to the negative impulse. If, for example, anger
arises toward a co-worker, I deliberately make the choice
to say something kind or at least understanding of their point of view.
If that is not possible, then I at least maintain common courtesy.
The goal of all this is to de-condition the brain away from knee-jerk
identification with the Kleshas.
Namo Amitabha Buddhaya!
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