Letting go

Dr. Most Venerable
Mirisse Dhammika Nayaka Thera

Among the many trees in a forest, sandalwood trees are rare. The leaves, steams, flowers, bark and wood of this tree are fragrant. When cutting a sandalwood tree, even the tools used become fragrant. Therefore, everyone likes the sandalwood tree.

The sandalwood tree is an appropriate analogy to a virtuous person in our society. Among the many billions of people, virtuous people are rare. Similar to diffusing the fragrance of a sandalwood tree, a virtuous person is a blessing to a vast number of Beings. There are many people who are like cactuses with prickly thorns. People are scared even to walk near cactus trees for thorns can be life threatening. Similarly, association with evil friends is a threat to life. Their thoughts, words and deeds are full of evil. The difference between evil and good can be distinguished when we think of those who brought the world to war and the saints who brought peace and harmony to people.

As torrential rains and cyclones can never decimate the fragrance of a sandalwood tree, the many obstructions, insults and dangers can never obliterate the noble qualities of a virtuous person. When a virtuous person is challenged, obstructed, insulted or placed in danger, he makes the best of the situation, similar to the sandalwood tree that becomes more fragrant when cut. Many people seemed to be good in their outlook, smile, dress and talk. Their true nature can be experienced when working closely together in social issues. The virtuous person is entirely pure both from in and outside. Such a person does not try to exploit others for personal gain and is not envious of the well being of others. In spite of the many obstacles on the way, a virtuous person never terminates the noble course.

It is blissful, if one develops the ability to think according to the Great Teachings. Obstructions and difficulties are quite common in our lives. Even Ascetic Gothama has experienced obstructions while sitting under the Bodhi Tree with determination to attain enlightenment. Today, in a competitive world, if one can embark on this noble path, inspite of obstacles and dangers, it will bring positive results to oneself. It is neither practical nor possible to avoid social activities because there are many evil forces. These evil forces can never be annihilated. Therefore, if one develops patience, compassion, forgiveness, satisfaction, determination and common sense, one will be able to carry on with one’s noble journey without much disappointment.

The most valuable thing in life is to feel genuinely happy and render some service to society. It can be done even with a kind word. The Buddha on His way to Kusinara said to Venerable Ananda“atthadipaviharatha, atthasarana, anhagnasarana”. It means “living the life like a lamp by radiating light to self and to others”. One shall be unselfish and be of service to others for it is a noble human quality.

The Buddha was ready to pass away lying on a lounge placed under Sal-trees. Venerable Ananda was sorrowful and in tears because of the impending death of the Teacher. The Buddha called Ananda and reminded him about the impermanent nature of things, “Ananda, have I not taught that departing from loved ones and things are inevitable”. This calmed Venerable Ananda’s mind.

The following are a few drops of the Dhamma that were taught by the Greatest Teacher of mankind during forty five years as the Buddha.

Ha yobbanajaraantha – Youth ends in old age;

Ha vinasamahadhanna – Wealth ends in loss;

Ha sanyogavippayoga – Associations end in dissociations;

Ha piyasokaantahka – Attachments end in sadness;

Ha mathanthasajivaka – Life ends in death;

Ha dhukkasubbasosukkha – Comforts end in suffering.

If we think wisely, it is not difficult to comprehend that we will have to part from things we call mine, ours and all possession. If one thinks sincerely, one will realize that nothing is permanent and everything is short lived. The more one attempts to keep things secure, the more they become insecure.

May you be well, happy and peaceful !!!