Camel of Love: Buddhism

     Today's Wisdom comes from the Dhammapadda, in a section called "Twin Verses."

The Dhammapada is probably the premier scripture for most Buddhists.

The Buddha himself is reputed to be its author.

TWIN VERSES 

All that we are is the result of what we have thought.

We are formed and molded by our thoughts.

Those whose minds are shaped by selfish thoughts cause misery when they speak or act.

Sorrows follow them as the wheels of a cart follow the bullock that draws it.

All that we are is the result of what we have thought.

We are formed and molded by our thoughts.

Those whose minds are shaped by selfless thoughts give joy when they speak or act.

Joy follows them like a shadow that never leaves them.

(from "God Makes the Rivers to Flow"  by Eknath Easwaran

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     This is the most practical wisdom imaginable!   It is not easy to practice, however.

The first step is to become far more conscious of what we are thinking day and night than we usually are.  And to do that, we have to have a strong sense of being much more than our thoughts.  If we think we ARE our thoughts, we are in deep trouble!  They come and go, like the birds in the sky.  And when they are negative thoughts,  they can foul us up.  Martin Luther told his barber, who was concerned about his lack of control over his thoughts, especially negative ones: "You can't stop birds from flying over your head, but you can keep them from making a nest in your hair!" 

     Of course, if our thoughts are good thoughts, uplifting thoughts, inspiring thoughts, "feed the birds!" Keep them around.  Nourish them.  They will bring delight and beauty to our lives.  Or, as Buddha says,  "Joy follows like a shadow that never leaves you."   I would like to be shadowed by Joy, wouldn't you?