Introduction 

Samsara is that which is changing. So we also have to change with it. Fall with the fall and flow with the flow – be light. These 9 qualities help us in this journey:

1. Vairagya (independence) and Viveka (prioritization)  
2. Dama (calmness of body) and Shama (quietness of mind)
3. Uparama (say no to what is not your responsibility) and Samadana (focus and be absorbed in what one does)
4. Titiksha (endurance) – since the nature of creation is conflict, endure this. Tend to what’s going on. Shraddha (faith) – there is more than creation – the creator. Transcend what’s going on. 

Question 1:

What is the nature of reality? Is the atma true? How does Advaita Vedanta’s concept of reality relate to Buddhism’s concept of reality? 

Response:

In Advaita Vedanta, if you love the creation, you love the creator. Buddha is one of the avataras of Bhagavan Narayana. All these avataras concur on the idea of Oneness. Anything that is changing, comes to an end. Changeless is what everyone’s experience is. You have to be existent to experience non-existence, so it is not possible. 

At the center, Buddhism and Advaita Vedanta are the same. The vision of the philosopher is the same. 

Question 2:

At what point do you not endure and stand up? 

Response:

If you don’t feel like you are being taken for granted, then you are not taken for granted. It is all about your perspective. 

Your endurance should relate to yourself and others. The Pandavas endured a lot, but when it started to affect many others, they endured less. 

Stand up for yourself in a disciplined way. Not explode, but in an ongoing dialogue. Communication helps address ignorance. 

Reflection Assignment

Last week: Think about what you’re unclear about. 

Unclear = uncommitted. 

This week: Reflect on the magnitude of gratitude.