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Simplicity, Patience and
Compassion: The Three Treasures
By Laura M. Turner
According
to Eastern tradition there are three treasures on the pathway to enlightenment:
simplicity, patience and compassion. At first glance, such simple ideas. Yet
after contemplation one easily recognizes: it’s these basic thoughts, when woven
into our day, that can lead each of us to a contemplative, peaceful and more
fulfilling life.
In this short article then, I invite you to take a page from Eastern religion: explore the three treasures
and become aware of your relationship to them.
Simplicity
The first treasure: simplicity. Simplicity in thought and action. According to author Thomas
Cleary in his translation of Taoist Meditation, simplicity leads the seeker on
the Way. Simplicity of thought, he tells us, can often be brought about by
silence. And in the silence, we gain personal wisdom. If finding 10 or 20
minutes each day to rest quietly or meditate could bring you closer to peace,
would you be more conscientious in devoting this time?
Simplicity of action, however, feels a greater challenge. It involves priorities
and discovering what is truly important. Here’s how I personally handle this:
When I feel overwhelmed by my “to-do list” I create a game by challenging myself
to let go of everything I can do without. Then, I remove as many things as I can from my list. What
I am left with are those items of greatest importance. I devote as much time
necessary to completing each task with joy and precision.
Try it now. What can you remove from the task list today that could bring you closer to simplifying
your life? What will you place your attention on?
Patience
Treasure number two: patience. Yes, the virtue. And just like simplicity, it is also a
challenge to move slowly through tasks until they have been completed or to
remain calm when dealing with someone outrageous. I’ve found that we are
often mirror images of others and attract to us parts of ourselves. This is
important to note as it could manifest
positive or negative events, depending on mindset. In this light, Inalya Vanzant reminds us to
keep thoughts pure. She tells us to remind ourselves: "I will gain more
understanding when I realize... how I interpret what comes at me is a reflection
of what is in me." When faced with a situation requiring patience ask
yourself: Am I casting a positive image?
In this framework, more of my favorite wisdom comes from author Richard Carlson in
his new book: Easier Than You Think. In it he explains, when we are with someone,
we should make
every effort to pay expert attention to that person. This engages them and often
can
diffuse a stressful situation by simply making them feel important. With this in
mind, the next time you
engage in conversation or even a casual chat with someone: ask yourself if you are creating
a role model's image.
Compassion
Compassion, the third treasure. I often liken it to empathy. Although we cannot
always know directly what it is like to be another, we can value everyone’s need to be heard. Conflict or anger is
often a cry for help. We simply need to be aware of our circumstances in effort to create
compassion in our lives. We will be called to help others as we become more
enlightened vessels of peace. Events will come to us as a reflection of what we
need to heal in ourselves.
Thomas Cleary reminds us we should
always act in sincerity. In Taoist Meditation he writes: “to choose what is good and hold onto it firmly is a
matter of sincerity.” Compassion, as well, challenges us to define what is
most important to us; a reoccurring theme throughout the three treasures. To
me, this involves being awake and aware in our lives to see the ways in which we
are available to give sincerity and service.
Today, be aware of the ways spirit is working through you. Remember: You are the vessel
of peace for others and the world. I believe, the more we become vulnerable to
trust and open ourselves to sincerity, the more we can allow compassionate
behavior into our lives and become enlightened each and every day.
In Conclusion:
It is my wish these positive ideas enhance your life and bring you peace. Be conscious every day of
the messages you are receiving, the people you meet, your experiences. It is
amazing the way these simple ideas can enrich your life
exponentially. Go forth then, and be aware. Place your attention on the three
treasures: in the darkness they will bring you light.
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Laura M. Turner is a 15-year veteran fitness instructor, fitness
trainer and natural health practitioner. She hosts
http://www.body-and-beauty.com a
website dedicated to
inspiring and educating others about the benefits of creativity, natural health and fitness.
Check out Laura's latest book
Spiritual Fitness: The 7-Steps to Living Well or subscribe FREE to
her online magazine The New Body News and Wellness Letter:
http://www.new-body-news.com
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