Finding Our Way by exploration of Buddhist Teachings

馃 Life can be challenging. Many of us search for peace and happiness, but we sometimes struggle with feelings of sadness and uncertainty. In my journey, I discovered Buddhist teachings that offered some guidance. While I鈥檓 still very much a student of these ideas, I鈥檇 like to share what I鈥檝e learned so far, in case it might be helpful to you. Please remember, I鈥檓 not an expert - just someone trying to grow and understand life better. Your path may look different from mine, and that鈥檚 perfectly fine. We鈥檙e all unique, with our own experiences and challenges. The important thing is to keep moving forward, seeking a sense of peace that doesn鈥檛 come at the expense of others. If any of this resonates with you, I encourage you to explore further and find what works best for you. 馃 鈽革笍 馃檹 ...

21 September 2024 路 9 min 路 1787 words 路 Joseph Lee

The Middle Path (Majjhima Patipada)

Introduction The Middle Path, also known as The Middle Way and Majjhima Patipada in Pali, is a key teaching in Buddhism, introduced by the Buddha as a balanced approach to life. It avoids the extremes of self-indulgence (seeking pleasure in material things) and self-mortification (causing harm to oneself in the name of spiritual practice). Instead, it promotes moderation and balance in all aspects of life, leading to wisdom, ethical conduct, and mental discipline. ...

25 September 2024 路 3 min 路 584 words 路 Joseph Lee

The Four Noble Truths Explained

The Four Noble Truths Suffering exists, it has a cause, it can be ended, and there鈥檚 a path to end it. 1. The Truth of Suffering (Dukkha) Recognise that life is inherently unsatisfactory due to impermanence. Explanation: Life isn鈥檛 always perfect. Everyone faces problems, stress, and disappointment. This could be feeling upset after a breakup, stressing over exams, or dealing with family issues. The first Noble Truth recognises that suffering or dissatisfaction is a part of life. Relatable Example: Think about when you really wanted to go to a concert, but tickets sold out. That feeling of disappointment is part of the suffering the Buddha talked about. 2. The Cause of Suffering (Samudaya) Understand that craving and attachment lead to suffering. ...

21 September 2024 路 3 min 路 441 words 路 Joseph Lee

The Noble Eightfold Path Simplified

The Noble Eightfold Path is a set of guidelines taught by the Buddha to help people live happier and more peaceful lives. It鈥檚 like a roadmap for how to think, act, and live in a way that reduces suffering and leads to true happiness. The Noble Eightfold Path 1. Right Understanding (Right View) Cultivate an accurate understanding of reality through the Four Noble Truths. Explanation: This means seeing things as they really are. It鈥檚 about understanding the basic truths of life, like knowing that actions have consequences and recognizing the importance of kindness and honesty. Relatable Example: Imagine you realize that cheating on a test might get you a good grade now, but it doesn鈥檛 help you learn and could lead to trouble later. Understanding this helps you make better choices. 2. Right Intention Develop thoughts of renunciation, goodwill, and harmlessness. ...

21 September 2024 路 5 min 路 854 words 路 Joseph Lee

Buddhist Ethical Conduct (Sila)

Introduction Explanation Sila refers to moral conduct or ethical behaviour in Buddhism. It鈥檚 about doing what鈥檚 right and avoiding what鈥檚 wrong. Ethical conduct serves as a foundation for personal growth and happiness. Why It Matters Acting ethically helps you live peacefully with others and yourself. It reduces conflicts and builds trust in relationships. Relatable Example Think about following school rules not just to avoid punishment but because it creates a better environment for everyone. When you choose not to spread rumors, you鈥檙e practicing ethical conduct by respecting others. Panca Sila (The Five Precepts) What is the Five Precepts? The Five Precepts are basic ethical guidelines that Buddhists try to follow. They are: ...

21 September 2024 路 4 min 路 719 words 路 Joseph Lee