Buddhism’s Noble 8-fold path is a marvellously steadying guide for any of us to live by. It “nobly” requires that we think about how – as well as what – we will understand (choose to look into deeply and comprehend); how we will interpret our own and others’ thoughts, choices, actions; and especially what truly brings us meaning – and how we will choose to live.

“Right View” is where we begin: not once, but countless times. As we look more deeply and courageously, we will not lose our spontaneity. On the contrary, we will grow in self-trust – and in fearlessness.

Much of what we see – perhaps all – is the result of our mental and social conditioning. Some of this is benign and liberating; some is not. We need to grow more curious as well as far more conscious about our perceptions, and more willing to stop clinging to perceptions that limit us or in any way damage our relations with others.

In this talk, recorded at Pitt Street Uniting Church, I share thoughts that I trust will be useful to you, whatever your spiritual path has been or is. Like all wisdom teachings, those of the Buddha are for all who will listen. We can all benefit.

The poem with which I start this talk is from John O’Donohue’s Benediction. I share it below. I am ceaselessly grateful for his “view”. Please share your thoughts via FaceBook. And please do freely share this talk with others. These are teachings given to us to enhance our lives and help us to play our part in the healing of ourselves and the world.  Blessings to all.

I place on the altar of dawn:
The quiet loyalty of breath,
The tent of thought where I shelter,
Waves of desire I am shore to
And all beauty drawn to the eye.

May my mind come alive today
To the invisible geography
That invites me to new frontiers,
To break the dead shell of yesterdays,
To risk being disturbed and changed.

May I have the courage today
To live the life that I would love,
To postpone my dream no longer
But do at last what I came here for
And waste my heart on fear no more.

John O’Donohue