Thoughts at 2am

I have learned to appreciate the wisdom and beliefs of other religions over the years, particularly Asian religions. I am particularly drawn to Buddhism. I am attracted to Buddhism because of the peaceful nature of the dogma. I could only hope to be as close to happiness in simplicity as I have observed in the Buddhist monks I've met. I find peace in the words of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, particularly his messages about compassion. He states on his website, "I believe the purpose of life is to be happy". He goes on to tell us the path to happiness is through love and compassion, and the more we care for others the more happiness and contentment we feel throughout our lives. We need love to thrive, we crave love from birth and when we receive love we develop compassion for others that allows us to serve others and receive their love in return.

I am far from this ideal, but I take comfort in these simple words and advice.


Dalai Lama’s 18 rules for living

At the start of the new millennium the Dalai Lama apparently issued eighteen rules for living. Since word travels slowly in the digital age these have only just reached me. Here they are.

1. Take into account that great love and great achievements involve great risk.
2. When you lose, don’t lose the lesson.
3. Follow the three Rs:
1. Respect for self
2. Respect for others
3. Responsibility for all your actions.
4. Remember that not getting what you want is sometimes a wonderful stroke of luck.
5. Learn the rules so you know how to break them properly.
6. Don’t let a little dispute injure a great friendship.
7. When you realize you’ve made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it.
8. Spend some time alone every day.
9. Open your arms to change, but don’t let go of your values.
10. Remember that silence is sometimes the best answer.
11. Live a good, honourable life. Then when you get older and think back, you’ll be able to enjoy it a second time.
12. A loving atmosphere in your home is the foundation for your life.
13. In disagreements with loved ones, deal only with the current situation. Don’t bring up the past.
14. Share your knowledge. It’s a way to achieve immortality.
15. Be gentle with the earth.
16. Once a year, go someplace you’ve never been before.
17. Remember that the best relationship is one in which your love for each other exceeds your need for each other.
18. Judge your success by what you had to give up in order to get it.

To read more about His Holiness the Dalai Lama and his messages of love, go here: http://www.dalailama.com/page.166.htm