"A disciplined mind brings happiness"
- Buddha
Sarah writes...
Mondays and Tuesdays are the days off for volunteers at KSD. This weekend began with a lovely (live streamed on YouTube) Chenrezig session on Sunday evening. Even though the centre is closed, it feels like it was quite a busy week and so I was looking forward to a few days off! However, due to the current situation, there was quite a lot of free time on Monday and Tuesday, and although I think it is good to rest, I felt the lack of going out or having "things to do" created a feeling of lethargy and laziness. I am lucky because today we started work again, and the structure of this pulled me out of that slump.
However, I am reminded of the importance of self-discipline. A few weeks ago I listened to a podcast that said, "self-discipline is a form of self-respect". This made me question the harsh and punishing colour I always felt this word usually carries. That discipline can encourage a texture of self love, or strength; that if we set attainable goals, or a daily routine during this period, and stick to it, we respect ourselves, and feel stronger in ourselves. When I get myself out of bed earlier in the morning to do my practice, I feel so much more empowered in myself that day than I do with the extra sleep!
So today is just an encouragement to hold a structure if your days feel empty, to fill the time with practice, study, work, rest, and calling and connecting with others who may need to hear a friendly voice. Of course, this can be very difficult. This is why I feel this quote is so pertinent, as the longer term goal is that much more rewarding than the benefits of giving into one's own immediate indulgences.
And of course there is the morning streamed meditation sessions for some group motivation to start off one's day!
Very good timing without being able to go to the centre can lead to a reduction in discipline so really relevant!
Sarah, I could have written the same piece (although without the bit about working at the centre!). It's so strange how you know structure and discipline set the day up so well, but then at least 2 or 3 days a week I end up not doing that and then up feeling like I'm playing catch up for the rest of the day. I wonder what helps keep that diligence going day in, day out?
Very pertinent, thank you.