Be Sati

Engaged Buddhism: Precept 2

Engaged Buddhism is a way of applying the insights of meditation and Buddhist teachings to social action.  The term was coined and then elaborated on by one of my most beloved Buddhism teachers, Thich Nhat Hanh.

Precept 2
Do not think the knowledge you presently possess is changeless, absolute truth. Avoid being narrow minded and bound to present views. Learn and practice nonattachment from views in order to be open to receive others’ viewpoints. Truth is found in life and not merely in conceptual knowledge. Be ready to learn throughout your entire life and to observe reality in yourself and in the world at all times.

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Entrenching ourselves in our personal worldview starts early.  I’m amazed at how resolute even my 3 year old daughter is in her thinking about things.  In spite of her stubbornness, she is still very open and receptive.  We can learn a lot from children.