What We Must Overcome in this World
The Teaching of the Buddha
Those who seek Enlightenment must be careful of their each step. No matter how high one’s aspiration may be, it must be attained step by step. The steps to the path of Enlightenment must be taken in our everyday life.At the very beginning of the path to Enlightenment there are twenty difficulties for us to overcome in this world, and they are:
It is hard for a poor man to be generous.
It is hard for a proud man to learn the Way to Enlightenment.
It is hard to seek Enlightenment at the cost of self-sacrifice.
It is hard be born while Buddha is in the world.
It is hard to hear the teaching of Buddha.
It is hard to keep the mind pure against the instincts of the body.
It is hard not to desire things that are beautiful and attractive.
It is hard for a strong man not to use his strength to satisfy his desires.
It is hard not to get angry when one is insulted.
It is hard to remain innocent when tempted by sudden circumstances.
It is hard to apply oneself to study widely and thoroughly.
It is hard not to despise a beginner.
It is hard to keep oneself humble.
It is hard to find good friends.
It is hard to endure the discipline that leads to Enlightenment.
It is hard not to be disturbed by external conditions and circumstances.
It is hard to teach others by knowing their abilities.
It is hard to maintain a peaceful mind.
It is hard not to argue about right and wrong.
It is hard to find and learn a good method.
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Source: The Teaching of Buddha, compiled by Bukkyo Dendo Kyokai, Buddhist Promoting Foundation, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan 1966.
Posted by Swami Sadasivananda at 11/30/2010 5:56 AM 
Categories: LIVING A HOLY LIFE, Kirtan - Group singing
Tags: Buddha Dhammapada Nirvana
Categories: LIVING A HOLY LIFE, Kirtan - Group singing
Tags: Buddha Dhammapada Nirvana
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