The more you practice the three trainings of ethics, meditation, and wisdom, the more difficult it will become for you to act in a way that is contrary to an ethical, compassionate attitude. Ethics arise naturally out of contemplating the three trainings. — Buddhist Teaching
People ask me all the time why I read the Bible and read books written by Merton, Bonhoeffer, Nouwen, C.S. Lewis, and many others. The answer is twofold. First, I constantly find nuggets of wisdom in my readings that carry me during difficult times and/or remind me I am not alone in my troubles. Second, much like the Buddhist teaching, the more I study the less likely I am prone to act in an inappropriate way.
Ask yourself how you feel after reading a biography of Gandhi or a book of his sayings, “Am I drawn to violence after I read about him?” Of course not.
It is almost impossible to read about Jesus and then turn around and be judgmental or unloving, although I’m amazed there are a few who somehow can.
A great athlete trains and practices constantly. If your goal is to be loving and compassionate soul, there is no more direct path than simply practicing day in and day out unconditional love and compassion.
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