T
he conditions in the world this last year have required us to live with great patience. Patience, kshanti, is regarded as one of the paramitas, the characteristics of enlightened beings, facing conditions with a clear eye, open mind and warm heart. Without patience, our suffering is tenfold.
As we concentrate on what is in front of us we don’t have to bring unnecessary tension, a form of aversion, into our approach. Instead we can respond as needed, relating to what is, appropriately, taking suitable time. With patience we enjoy a release from anxiety and dissatisfaction that comes with putting our agendas first.
Even if you have a lot to do, bringing the practice of patience to it seems in some magical way to allow the tasks to flow more easily and completely. Try it. Concentrating on all the ways that daily conditions call us to the practice, this paramita can transform what seems inherently stressful into a vital lesson about the perfection of each dharma moment.
Mushin
