tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51196767826724211222024-03-14T03:01:07.373-04:00Lojong for the LaypersonA visual walk through the Buddhist Lojong slogans as photographed and interpreted by an ordinary person.thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.comBlogger130125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5119676782672421122.post-21001858405221744152018-08-23T10:35:00.001-04:002019-08-17T16:17:55.904-04:00Lojong Index with Links to Posts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilF9DgxgdyWI9E8dvpeFgBcZHBB_PkYQO3j83ia4yp8QI4ZiPIxV9DI11hmeGGOCecK8tu11pV9ziKTT18MoFjIslKxAU5CTwFGAe8qHSCkVAGH1gBmMRU41R2GIJIQcj6bD1O3dkDEGXA/s1600/Cypress+Swamp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilF9DgxgdyWI9E8dvpeFgBcZHBB_PkYQO3j83ia4yp8QI4ZiPIxV9DI11hmeGGOCecK8tu11pV9ziKTT18MoFjIslKxAU5CTwFGAe8qHSCkVAGH1gBmMRU41R2GIJIQcj6bD1O3dkDEGXA/s320/Cypress+Swamp.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Cypress swamp - B. King</i></div>
<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2014/11/an-introduction-to-lojong.html" target="_blank">Introduction</a><br />
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<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/08/point-one-preliminaries.html" target="_blank">Point One</a><br />
Slogan: One (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2014/11/slogan-one.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/02/first-train-in-preliminaries.html" target="_blank">2</a>)<br />
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<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/08/point-two-of-seven-points.html" target="_blank">Point Two</a><br />
Slogans: Two (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2014/11/slogan-two.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/02/regard-all-experiences-as-dreams.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Three (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2014/11/slogan-three.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/02/examine-nature-of-unborn-awareness.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Four (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2014/11/slogan-four.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/02/self-liberate-even-antidote.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Five (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2014/11/slogan-five.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/02/rest-in-nature-of-alaya-essence.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Six (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2014/12/slogan-six.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/02/in-post-meditation-be-child-of-illusion.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Seven (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2014/12/slogan-seven.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/02/sending-and-taking-should-be-practiced.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Eight (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2014/12/slogan-eight.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/03/three-objects-three-poisons-three-seeds.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Nine (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2014/12/slogan-nine.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/03/in-all-activities-train-with-slogans.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Ten (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/01/slogan-ten.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/03/begin-sequence-of-sending-and-taking.html" target="_blank">2</a>)<br />
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<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/09/point-three-of-seven-points.html" target="_blank">Point Three</a><br />
Slogans: Eleven (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/01/slogan-eleven.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/03/transform-all-mishaps-into-path-of.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Twelve (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/01/slogan-twelve.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/04/drive-all-blames-into-one.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Thirteen (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/01/slogan-thirteen.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/04/be-grateful-to-everyone.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Fourteen (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/02/slogan-fourteen.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/04/the-ultimate-protection-is-emptiness.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Fifteen (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/02/slogan-fifteen.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/04/four-practices-are-best-methods.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Sixteen (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/02/slogan-sixteen.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/05/whatever-you-meet-unexpectedly-join.html" target="_blank">2</a>)<br />
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<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/09/point-four-of-seven-points.html" target="_blank">Point Four</a><br />
Slogans: Seventeen (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/02/slogan-seventeen.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/05/train-in-five-strengths.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Eighteen (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/03/slogan-eighteen.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/05/the-five-strengths-are-instructions-for.html" target="_blank">2</a>)<br />
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<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/09/point-five-of-seven-points.html" target="_blank">Point Five</a><br />
Slogans: Nineteen (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/03/slogan-nineteen.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/05/all-dharma-agree-at-one-point.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Twenty (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/03/slogan-twenty.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/05/of-two-witnesses-hold-principal-one.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Twenty-one (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/03/slogan-twenty-one.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/06/always-maintain-only-joyful-mind.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Twenty-two (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/03/slogan-twenty-two.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/06/if-you-can-practice-even-when.html" target="_blank">2</a>)<br />
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<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/09/point-six-of-seven-points.html" target="_blank">Point Six</a><br />
Slogans: Twenty-three (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/04/slogan-twenty-three.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/06/always-abide-by-three-basic-principles.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Twenty-four (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/04/slogan-twenty-four.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/06/change-your-attitude-but-remain-natural.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Twenty-five (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/04/slogan-twenty-five.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/07/dont-talk-about-injured-limbs.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Twenty-six (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/04/slogan-twenty-six.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/07/dont-ponder-others.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Twenty-seven (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/05/slogan-twenty-seven.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/07/work-with-greatest-defilements-first.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Twenty-eight (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/05/slogan-twenty-eight.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/07/abandon-any-hope-of-fruition_39.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Twenty-nine (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/05/slogan-twenty-nine.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/08/abandon-poisonous-food_25.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Thirty (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/05/slogan-thirty.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/08/dont-be-so-predictable.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Thirty-one (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/05/slogan-thirty-one.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/08/dont-malign-others.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Thirty-two (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/06/slogan-thirty-two.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/08/dont-wait-in-ambush.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Thirty-three (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/06/slogan-thirty-three.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/08/dont-bring-things-to-painful-point.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Thirty-four (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/06/slogan-thirty-four.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/09/dont-transfer-oxs-load-to-cow.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Thirty-five (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/06/slogan-thirty-five.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/09/dont-try-to-be-fastest.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Thirty-six (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/07/slogan-thirty-six.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/09/dont-act-with-twist.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Thirty-seven (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/07/slogan-thirty-seven.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/09/dont-make-gods-into-demons.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Thirty-eight (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/07/slogan-thirty-eight.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/10/dont-seek-others-pain-as-limbs-of-your.html" target="_blank">2</a>)<br />
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<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/10/point-seven-of-seven-points.html" target="_blank">Point Seven</a><br />
Slogans: Thirty-nine (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/07/slogan-thirty-nine.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/10/all-activities-should-be-done-with-one.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Forty (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/08/slogan-forty.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/10/correct-all-wrongs-with-one-intention.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Forty-one (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/08/slogan-forty-one.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/10/two-activities-one-at-beginning-one-at.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Forty-two (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/08/slogan-forty-two.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/10/whichever-of-two-occurs-be-patient.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Forty-three (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/08/slogan-forty-three.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/11/observe-these-two-no-matter-what.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Forty-four (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/08/slogan-forty-four.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/11/train-in-three-difficulties.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Forty-five (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/09/slogan-forty-five.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/11/take-on-three-principal-causes.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Forty-six (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/09/slogan-forty-six.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/11/dont-allow-three-things-to-diminish.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Forty-seven (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/09/slogan-forty-seven.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/12/make-three-gates-inseparable.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Forty-eight (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/09/slogan-forty-eight.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/12/train-without-bias-in-all-areas.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Forty-nine (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/10/slogan-forty-nine.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/12/always-meditate-on-whatever-provokes.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Fifty (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/10/slogan-fifty.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/12/dont-be-swayed-by-external-circumstances.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Fifty-one (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/10/slogan-fifty-one.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2017/01/this-time-practice-main-points.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Fifty-two (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/10/slogan-fifty-two.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2017/01/dont-misinterpret.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Fifty-three (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/11/slogan-fifty-three.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2017/01/dont-vacillate.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Fifty-four (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/11/slogan-fifty-four.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2017/01/train-wholeheartedly.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Fifty-five (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/11/slogan-fifty-five.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2017/01/liberate-yourself-by-examining-and.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Fifty-six (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/11/slogan-fifty-six.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2017/02/dont-wallow-in-self-pity.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Fifty-seven (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/11/slogan-fifty-seven.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2017/02/dont-be-jealous.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Fifty-eight (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/12/slogan-fifty-eight.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2017/02/dont-be-frivolous.html" target="_blank">2</a>); Fifty-nine (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/12/slogan-fifty-nine.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2017/02/dont-expect-applause.html" target="_blank">2</a>)<br />
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Working with the Slogans (<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/03/working-with-slogans.html" target="_blank">1</a>,<a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2016/05/working-with-slogans-ii.html" target="_blank">2</a>)<br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">PDF with <a href="https://drive.google.com/open?id=1sQREM4ECFxxwGn6g39M0ElUbmKGO0UxH" target="_blank">Lojong text cards</a> for printing.</span></div>
thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5119676782672421122.post-63909440317801312582017-03-12T08:51:00.000-04:002017-03-13T06:23:12.535-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQHaZ62Idn3hjdDUTwgMh1BFIGIRPSJ_0rNVRVRUN7sMIDWGE63mFmYXyqFMvLi_oHqUguvRweHECMuWIiyKyn_Pca3-sfzPP0Ik-AmkOg-nZGDQaXZYJdHIJku7nxmVPeXc-kcGxaa3pu/s1600/cicada+shell.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQHaZ62Idn3hjdDUTwgMh1BFIGIRPSJ_0rNVRVRUN7sMIDWGE63mFmYXyqFMvLi_oHqUguvRweHECMuWIiyKyn_Pca3-sfzPP0Ik-AmkOg-nZGDQaXZYJdHIJku7nxmVPeXc-kcGxaa3pu/s320/cicada+shell.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Cicada shell - photo by B. King</i></div>
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I'll be taking a break from this blog for awhile to pursue other endeavors, but I do hope those of you who visit will continue to leave comments or questions. Lojong will be a lifelong practice for me, even if I'm not blogging about it. For those looking for information on a certain slogan, use the search box found on the right hand side to type in a keyword or slogan number (for example, 'slogan twenty-two' or 'applause'). As of this date, there are two posts for each slogan.</div>
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<i style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">When we are not so self-involved, we begin to realize that the world is speaking to us all of the time. Every plant, every tree, every animal, every person, every car, every airplane is speaking to us, teaching us, awakening us. It’s a wonderful world, but we often miss it. </i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">~ Pema Chodron</span></div>
thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5119676782672421122.post-79371298545456310772017-02-27T08:17:00.000-05:002017-02-27T08:19:52.061-05:00Don't expect applause.<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Wolf | Gray wolf growl" height="214" src="https://www.livingwithwolves.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/WSngs4_0134_1.jpg" width="320" /></div>
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<i>Photo from <a href="https://www.livingwithwolves.org/" target="_blank">Living with Wolves</a></i></div>
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For social animals like wolves, communication among the group is vital in reinforcing bonds, maintaining stability and coordinating action. Body language - posture, facial expression, ear and tail position - are one way these animals express their intent and expectation non-verbally. Vocalizations may include barks, yips, whines, growls and whimpers; each sound is effective in sending important information and keeping the community united. Since smell is one of the wolf's most acute senses, scat and urine are used as identification and boundary markers. Humans too rely on communication; even one-year-olds can recognize facial expressions of approval or disapproval. This pressing need to earn the good opinion and applause from others often follows us into adulthood, usually to our disadvantage. As we train and practice on our spiritual path, we may look to others for positive feedback. Yet this compulsion is nearly always a distraction and rarely an aid. The Buddha reminded his followers that they were capable of perceiving for themselves whether a teaching was beneficial and true by simply putting it into practice. Our own experience will provide all the feedback we need.<br />
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<i>What further reward is there beyond finding that our actions are gratifying, meaningful, and purposeful in themselves? ~ </i>Traleg Kyabgon</div>
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<i>For more information on the fifty-ninth slogan, go <a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/12/slogan-fifty-nine.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i></div>
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thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5119676782672421122.post-44970421990597652952017-02-20T05:30:00.000-05:002017-02-20T05:30:26.570-05:00Don't be frivolous.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9MtPs3XyFg6FdJtaJU1eZmyQT4ZFonoRsUfqMf2UvHnyL9nfEE1KN9ekM0iFunGshUAhlLTjCYasdOvM2mRlfJwtbQlmj_ACRXfylua7l7lZ_-HVC98syJIo9FvgI9Ka6XiqUyOZvidfg/s1600/Killdeer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9MtPs3XyFg6FdJtaJU1eZmyQT4ZFonoRsUfqMf2UvHnyL9nfEE1KN9ekM0iFunGshUAhlLTjCYasdOvM2mRlfJwtbQlmj_ACRXfylua7l7lZ_-HVC98syJIo9FvgI9Ka6XiqUyOZvidfg/s320/Killdeer.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Killdeer feigning broken wing - Photo by <a href="http://www.ejmnet.com/" target="_blank">Earl McGehee</a></i></div>
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Scientists have identified two ways the brain processes external information it receives: willful focus (like watching a traffic light) and automatic focus (such as seeing something unusual or hearing a loud noise). Several types of birds have become adept at using a predator's automatic focus as a distraction method. Birds that nest on the ground will walk away from their eggs while pretending to have a broken wing. Other birds will fly off from their nest and act as if their flight is impeded by injury. These displays are intended to divert the predator's focus away from the original target. The fifty-eighth slogan cautions us not to be frivolous (having no purpose or value) with our attention or energy. This instruction is not meant to keep us from having fun (which is worthwhile) but to be aware of how we try to distract ourselves from reality. We may enjoy our comfort so much, that we'll try hard not to attend to any insights that might unravel it. Yet when we work to push away clarity, we waste energy and compound our pain. To be awake requires that we embrace the truth with gentleness, rather than distract ourselves from it.</div>
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<i>Do a little census of what you think about and how you spend your time. How do you distinguish between what is frivolous and what is worthwhile? </i>~ Judy Lief</div>
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<i>For more information on the fifty-eighth slogan, go <a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/12/slogan-fifty-eight.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i> </div>
thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5119676782672421122.post-84977951326722147612017-02-13T05:30:00.000-05:002017-02-13T05:30:10.858-05:00Don't be jealous.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJIHtNlspa9yHl_MxEgbe81jszRTye-Vm8-7LjdERnw58OxJBttDYKTdskECz6zUYl5rC2ghSdeRlLM99OItvzlL-ePVMh2dhia6i9yME0Ogvkd653ee1TTlS73iXDJzuQuGJUCq2CQSD7/s1600/Adelie+Penguin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJIHtNlspa9yHl_MxEgbe81jszRTye-Vm8-7LjdERnw58OxJBttDYKTdskECz6zUYl5rC2ghSdeRlLM99OItvzlL-ePVMh2dhia6i9yME0Ogvkd653ee1TTlS73iXDJzuQuGJUCq2CQSD7/s320/Adelie+Penguin.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Adelie penguins - photo by <a href="http://yourshot.nationalgeographic.com/profile/816610/#b/" target="_blank">George Pellissier</a></i></div>
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Adelie penguins breed and raise their young in Antarctica. To protect their eggs from the run-off when ice melts, their elevated nests are built from stones. Males with the best-looking nests are more likely to attract a mate, but unfortunately, they share space with a half million other Adelies. Good stones are highly prized and sought after, and because the nests are so close, the rocks in one penguin's nest are sometimes stolen by another. It may seem odd to compare thievery with envy, but isn't that what it is about - an attempt to steal someone's joy about their good fortune by our negative attitude or corrosive words? "Don't be jealous" is an encouragement to notice that hollow, grasping feeling when it arises within us, not to shame ourselves, but to wake us up. We can remember how good it feels to have someone genuinely share our happiness, the gift of doubling our joy. Where jealousy is accompanied by strong resentment, we can try a twist on loving-kindness (<i>metta </i>or <i>maitri</i>) meditation. We send out kind wishes for each person (beginning with those we feel benevolent toward and moving on to difficult people): "May your joy never decrease; may your good fortune continue." </div>
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<i>The practice of developing happiness for others confronts the patterns that bind us to these painful states and helps us loosen their grip. It opens the door to realizing that the happiness of others doesn't take anything away from us but can instead be our own happiness. </i>~ Sharon Salzberg</div>
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<i>For more information on the fifty-seventh slogan, go <a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/11/slogan-fifty-seven.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i></div>
thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5119676782672421122.post-59037779984384166382017-02-06T07:44:00.000-05:002017-02-06T07:45:28.661-05:00Don't wallow in self-pity.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrRsYA2WSId8ZJ0rrv-tfgrjt4fjAvor713KBcXef707lGw3aZ82XnqJHcirr8VZR6mnhVDk_NGnIkoEwWMUuZewggPavgHn77VWwwzZUTT8Dw9FRlakzUGZ4sQfl6qVCNEIGRzoY5i97z/s1600/Pill+Bugs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrRsYA2WSId8ZJ0rrv-tfgrjt4fjAvor713KBcXef707lGw3aZ82XnqJHcirr8VZR6mnhVDk_NGnIkoEwWMUuZewggPavgHn77VWwwzZUTT8Dw9FRlakzUGZ4sQfl6qVCNEIGRzoY5i97z/s320/Pill+Bugs.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Pill bugs photo by Edward S. Ross</i></div>
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The pill bug, fondly known as the roly poly by children, is the only crustacean that can spend its entire life on land. These bugs live in damp, dark places and come out at night to feed on decaying plant matter (thus playing an important role in the decomposition process). Yet the characteristic most people associate with pill bugs is their ability to completely roll themselves into a ball when disturbed. The type of self-pity described in the fifty-sixth slogan has the same effect on us. We become completely self-absorbed, curling around our pain and misfortune as if protecting it. It becomes our only focus; we willingly give away our power of choice and remain stuck in our suffering. Our constriction keeps us from realizing we are not unique; no matter how 'good' people are, bad things will happen to everyone. This is simply part of being a physical being in an impermanent world. Rather than self-pity, we can choose compassion for ourselves and others which opens our heart and gives us a wider perspective. Such a response will help us unfurl from our tightness and understand that we are not alone. </div>
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<i>Compassion becomes real when we recognize our shared humanity. </i>~ Pema Chodron</div>
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<i>For more information on the fifty-sixth slogan, go <a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/11/slogan-fifty-six.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i></div>
thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5119676782672421122.post-9988495634198739422017-01-30T05:30:00.000-05:002017-01-30T05:30:07.515-05:00Liberate yourself by examining and analyzing.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhj-qQgBSte6DjYeqtzbwETap4Ql-01Tz63_TrFORe7cQoNR5x4GFg0NZhcC_9KzeHamoc0SjSWt-3H-FRQOi4kwriUN9S7qKSwvV53QIxkjHNZWrC0UEhLrrpgIwWZgOLZxOmsIBD5DIw/s1600/car-l_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhj-qQgBSte6DjYeqtzbwETap4Ql-01Tz63_TrFORe7cQoNR5x4GFg0NZhcC_9KzeHamoc0SjSWt-3H-FRQOi4kwriUN9S7qKSwvV53QIxkjHNZWrC0UEhLrrpgIwWZgOLZxOmsIBD5DIw/s320/car-l_1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Photo by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lRY4-feFZZY" target="_blank">Chris McLennan</a><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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New Zealand photographer Chris McLennan sought a way to get close-ups of lions in their natural habitat. His friend Carl Hansen provided him with a tool to do so – a remote-controlled buggy with a Nikon camera inside. The buggy worked well, and it turned out that these big cats were just as curious as their domesticated cousins. The lions enthusiastically investigated the strange, rolling critter, allowing McLennan to get some great shots. They eventually ended up using it for a chew toy, but thankfully the camera survived intact. Humans, like cats, have an internal mix of caution and curiosity, but it is our curious nature that helps us learn. The fifty-fifth slogan asks us to use this side of ourselves to investigate the situations that tie us up in emotional knots. Is it our anger, fear of reality, attachment, jealousy or pride that causes most of our mental afflictions? Looking more closely, we may find at the bottom of our distress is simply things aren’t as we wish them to be. Our mind keeps us in a continuous loop reacting to the problem rather than looking for rational ways to deal with it. Being teachable, the mind can learn that this repetitive pattern isn’t helpful. Reality won’t be affected, but it will free the mind to make space for considering other options.</div>
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<i>Freedom derives from the resolve to truly recognize an affliction as the real enemy, rather than believing the cause of unhappiness is an outside agent. ~ </i>B. Alan Wallace</div>
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<i>For more information on the fifty-fifth slogan, go <a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/11/slogan-fifty-five.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i></div>
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thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5119676782672421122.post-84744033062518157872017-01-23T05:30:00.000-05:002017-01-23T05:30:19.401-05:00Train wholeheartedly.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxV7Pw4ApvypGlJtSSvwfkAY0Ix9kDXYOoL9yGpXiJXBoHob6M-AI2Tj8hLHkSdavgjMJzpsBVBUBtjiGg6ocWNJsY4tVPj8HJOcfvb-0v6IIzI1_EJO6bfpwbsLQMVapwvSQ1uR_cVbmV/s1600/SalmonRun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxV7Pw4ApvypGlJtSSvwfkAY0Ix9kDXYOoL9yGpXiJXBoHob6M-AI2Tj8hLHkSdavgjMJzpsBVBUBtjiGg6ocWNJsY4tVPj8HJOcfvb-0v6IIzI1_EJO6bfpwbsLQMVapwvSQ1uR_cVbmV/s320/SalmonRun.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Salmon run photo by <a href="http://naturalexposures.com/" target="_blank">Daniel J. Cox</a></i></div>
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In autumn, mature salmon leave the ocean and return to the spawning beds from which they hatched. Most of them stop eating once they enter freshwater and focus solely on reaching their goal. Once there, the female salmon will dig a hole in the gravel with her tail and lay a few thousand eggs. The eggs are then fertilized by the male. All Pacific salmon and most Atlantic salmon will die after spawning, and the life cycle will start all over again. Like the determination that drives the migration of the salmon, slogan fifty-four instructs us to be just as wholehearted in our spiritual practice. Training is not meant to be a passing interest maintained only as long as long as our passion lasts. Instead it requires sincerity, enthusiasm and commitment. We are clear-sighted about our intentions and our challenges, relying on courage and an open heart to keep us swimming upstream. </div>
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<i>Dharma doesn’t promise wealth, a great job, perfect health, or respect. The goal of Dharma is to fulfill your innate capacity for happiness.</i> ~ B. Alan Wallace</div>
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<i>For more information on the fifty-fourth slogan, go <a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/11/slogan-fifty-four.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i></div>
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thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5119676782672421122.post-83358422486622386262017-01-16T05:30:00.000-05:002017-01-16T08:44:47.268-05:00Don't vacillate.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDKSQFbHFj_MAmUfk1_lrv42fObiEf8sCOYal0NYolM-1LhOX5QcCX2vgbm6M_NY5BFPNEuzbFzpKrCV2N6G-AP9x_ukSZ7adU6Z7pc43WBCbcjp7H_z4OrJyf4HlSjBndaCAG22VFamE1/s1600/squirrel_PhilipLax_550x445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDKSQFbHFj_MAmUfk1_lrv42fObiEf8sCOYal0NYolM-1LhOX5QcCX2vgbm6M_NY5BFPNEuzbFzpKrCV2N6G-AP9x_ukSZ7adU6Z7pc43WBCbcjp7H_z4OrJyf4HlSjBndaCAG22VFamE1/s320/squirrel_PhilipLax_550x445.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Photo by Philip Lax</i></div>
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<i> </i>In nearly every magazine for birders, there are ads for squirrel-proof feeders and squirrel deterrents such as baffles. Google “how to keep squirrels off feeders,” and thousands of homemade solutions will appear. Some folks suggest putting cayenne pepper in with the seeds or substituting safflower for sunflower seeds. Others grease their poles, install a piece of aluminum duct on the pole or use a slick pvc pipe as a pole to keep squirrels from climbing up. One of the latest solutions is to wrap a dangling Slinky toy around the pole. Some of the more desperate birders have even built a wire cage around their feeders. Most people who have enjoyed feeding the birds for a long time simply give up, knowing that squirrels are both persistent and smart. They will keep trying until they figure a way around any solution folks come up with. The slogan “Don’t vacillate” encourages us to be just as one-pointed in our spiritual focus as squirrels are at getting to the seeds in feeders. Small periods of practice on a daily basis will provide more benefits than a demanding practice done only occasionally. We may have to get crafty like the squirrel and find innovative ways to make time for practice, but the main point is to keep at it.<br />
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<i>Cramming all our practice into intensive periods and then falling back into worldly life will bear far less fruit than doing small amounts of practice consistently over the long haul. ~ </i>Traleg Kyabgon</div>
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<i>For more information on the fifty-third slogan, go <a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/11/slogan-fifty-three.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i></div>
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<br />thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5119676782672421122.post-47892395760890324142017-01-09T05:30:00.000-05:002017-01-09T06:32:57.076-05:00Don't misinterpret.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCckm6KIEXgKtlpkU-ZzarTeH_yp8BA2L6U-HViDUJwO0OzmcqR9n0mxr9p1JuQccIFAMlEFoeRjT6Bqvu8u7NXORO7iCYBUs0vUUHqz1IVowQxY0jzO5a6V0j_uXFB54xzfwaluOHv5EU/s1600/Scarlet+Ksnake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCckm6KIEXgKtlpkU-ZzarTeH_yp8BA2L6U-HViDUJwO0OzmcqR9n0mxr9p1JuQccIFAMlEFoeRjT6Bqvu8u7NXORO7iCYBUs0vUUHqz1IVowQxY0jzO5a6V0j_uXFB54xzfwaluOHv5EU/s320/Scarlet+Ksnake.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Scarlet kingsnake photo by <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:G-Bartolotti_SK.jpg" target="_blank">Glenn Bartolotti</a></i></div>
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The scarlet kingsnake, a nonvenomous native of the southeastern and eastern U.S., has a color pattern that mimics the much-feared <a href="https://www.evergladesholidaypark.com/images/everglades-airboat-tour-coral-snake.jpg" target="_blank">coral snake</a>. To tell the harmless snake from its poisonous look-alike, a helpful rhyme was created: “Red on black, scratch its back; red on yellow, kill a fellow.” The slogan “Don’t misinterpret” is a warning not to mistake the qualities that support our practice – such as patience, compassion and kindness – for their self-serving impersonators. When our mind is clouded by desires and fears, we may create distorted versions of these spiritual principles to fit them around our personal preferences. Rather than using challenges to train, we twist the teachings we’ve learned in an effort to become comfortable or remain complacent. Yet the dharma encourages us to be in touch with reality instead of purposefully ignoring it. We can pay attention to certain ‘markings’ of the mind (frustration, self-importance or impatience) to discover our misinterpretation. Then we can drop our agenda, open our heart and train with what life offers us.</div>
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<i>When your spiritual practice is making you unhappy, when you feel grim or miserable about it, or on the other hand, when you are feeling happy about your practice and therefore quite arrogant and disapproving of others who are not as peaceful and holy as you imagine you are – when this is your situation, it is a sure sign that you are misinterpreting.</i> ~ Norman Fischer</div>
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<i>For more information about the fifty-second slogan, go <a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/10/slogan-fifty-two.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i></div>
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thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5119676782672421122.post-76981531926903085352017-01-02T05:30:00.000-05:002017-01-02T05:30:14.452-05:00This time, practice the main points.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzVndjTs0e1VupYT0xQDrg7K09TosM-4r_0sNOwE1koUtSNvWjyBD3X6XWrjHdj7lOzHRyVz2IwHfkEhlBp_RxYVC-KS4xV2j-MJZ680uQ4qkOPLyqVb8utAY5b5Vr6shF8IuU0iWsPmXr/s1600/baby-meerkat.jpg.adapt.945.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzVndjTs0e1VupYT0xQDrg7K09TosM-4r_0sNOwE1koUtSNvWjyBD3X6XWrjHdj7lOzHRyVz2IwHfkEhlBp_RxYVC-KS4xV2j-MJZ680uQ4qkOPLyqVb8utAY5b5Vr6shF8IuU0iWsPmXr/s320/baby-meerkat.jpg.adapt.945.1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Baby meerkat photo from <a href="http://kids.nationalgeographic.com/explore/moment-of-galleries/moment-of-aww/#baby-meerkat.jpg">National Geographic Kids</a></i></div>
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Wildlife researchers are beginning to study how some animals purposefully instruct their young. There has been much debate over what constitutes teaching, especially a criteria that could be observed by humans. In 1992, biologists Tim Caro and Marc Hauser successfully proposed three behaviors to identify such instruction:</div>
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Helping their young develop survival skills will ultimately advance their species, therefore these animal instructors waste no time when it comes to teaching. What advances our spiritual development? Slogan fifty-one identifies three main points: selfless action, application of the teachings and a mind committed to awakening and compassion. Like the animal teachers, we have no time to lose.<br />
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<i>Practicing what is important means getting your priorities straight in terms of your spiritual practice. </i>~ B. Alan Wallace</div>
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<i>For more information on the fifty-first slogan, go <a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/10/slogan-fifty-one.html">here</a>.</i></div>
thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5119676782672421122.post-56496501532775180522016-12-26T05:30:00.000-05:002016-12-26T05:30:02.873-05:00Don't be swayed by external circumstances.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<img alt="File:EasternBoxTurtleMale.jpg" height="213" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/4/45/EasternBoxTurtleMale.jpg/800px-EasternBoxTurtleMale.jpg" width="320" /></div>
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<i>Eastern box turtle - photo from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:EasternBoxTurtleMale.jpg">Wikipedia.org</a></i></div>
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Eastern box turtles mate between May and October, but finding a partner is rather haphazard. Mating occurs only if a male and female happen to come across one another, usually a chance encounter as they search for food. But the reproduction system of females has an unusual alternative for species support. These turtles can store viable sperm for up to four years. The right environmental conditions, such as food quantity and quality, cause hormone production that will trigger the formation of eggs. When conditions are good, the female box turtle can choose to use the stored sperm to fertilize her eggs. Some studies say that she can even choose which male's semen is used. Slogan fifty suggests that we don't rely on circumstances when it comes to our spiritual practice. Life itself presents us with the opportunities and tools we need train with, whether we experience loss or gain, are busy or bored, with fun-loving or difficult people. Choosing only specific times, people or situations to use for practice means we might miss a chance to develop a skill we sorely need.</div>
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<i>Work with your mind instead of trying to change everything on the outside.</i><br />
~ Pema Chodron</div>
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<i>For more information on the fiftieth slogan, go <a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/10/slogan-fifty.html">here</a>.</i></div>
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<br />thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5119676782672421122.post-20997659936304050212016-12-19T05:30:00.000-05:002016-12-19T05:30:07.094-05:00Always meditate on whatever provokes resentment.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdtnNz_aKF3IdsX2OWBtBL4NkEPI1kg_ubPAcCxGIkZVyM5SEBK4yEpe2l-yyMr-fw5MGRuXJAegROqw5QGn5xWY4pktyegGE9XXpHWVlXTa5Cr4fKS4AniuSZRTqw1D0ZHJL2bon1MjwG/s1600/bison.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdtnNz_aKF3IdsX2OWBtBL4NkEPI1kg_ubPAcCxGIkZVyM5SEBK4yEpe2l-yyMr-fw5MGRuXJAegROqw5QGn5xWY4pktyegGE9XXpHWVlXTa5Cr4fKS4AniuSZRTqw1D0ZHJL2bon1MjwG/s320/bison.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Bison photo from <a href="http://yellowstonepark.com/">yellowstonepark.com</a></i></div>
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Bison are just one form of 150 different ruminant species, including cows, goats, deer, giraffes, moose, and elk. A ruminant has a four-compartment stomach; this digestive system allows the animal to obtain nutrients from plants by fermenting what is eaten. These mammals are often observed 'chewing their cud' - partly digested food that is returned to the mouth for further chewing. Resentment is a similar form of rumination, except we get nothing beneficial from it. It might actually be considered closer to acid reflux, because we relive a perceived injustice over and over again along with the same burning emotion. The forty-ninth slogan asks us consider not the resentment itself, but what provokes it. We are caught only in a memory, not an event that is currently happening. Have we been provoked because of an opinion or expectation that we cling to? Has our security been threatened, do we fear a loss of some kind? Even if the injustice is valid, resentment keeps our vision narrow and shuts us off from joy. We remain in the emotional role of a victim instead of becoming a rational proponent of change. 'Chewing the cud' of resentment may make us feel like we're doing something constructive, but it actually keeps us stuck in a never-ending cycle.<br />
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<i>The bitterness that arises from a long-held wrong, gone over and over, encases the heart, making it difficult for love to get through.</i> ~ Sharon Salzberg</div>
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<i>For more information on the forty-ninth slogan, go <a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/10/slogan-forty-nine.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i></div>
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thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5119676782672421122.post-21527053203732395462016-12-12T05:30:00.000-05:002016-12-12T05:30:25.240-05:00Train without bias in all areas.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqXy_tyX_kB6foQXOKGQWHgbTqewzA4nEybWOB5kWPcf9FYSYXLbMfCWwl862JEJR-rNFk7rTs1H4P3ZeMRX_ghgf1kBlbQ_YOKLE5UCEvQLs9XNDNLPGv52WCg8klLKaD-tu0wePqR2RP/s1600/caterpillar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqXy_tyX_kB6foQXOKGQWHgbTqewzA4nEybWOB5kWPcf9FYSYXLbMfCWwl862JEJR-rNFk7rTs1H4P3ZeMRX_ghgf1kBlbQ_YOKLE5UCEvQLs9XNDNLPGv52WCg8klLKaD-tu0wePqR2RP/s320/caterpillar.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Monarch caterpillar photo by <a href="http://rtpi.org/" target="_blank">Twan Leenders</a></i></div>
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Though monarch butterflies may sip nectar from a variety of flowers, they nearly always lay their eggs on milkweeds. Their preference is intended to give the caterpillars that will feed on them a tool for survival. The milkweed's sap contains a chemical that will become a part of the caterpillar's body when it consumes the leaves, causing the larvae to taste terrible. Predators like birds have learned to recognize the caterpillar's black and yellow stripes and steer clear of them when looking for food. The taste is even transferred to the butterfly after the caterpillar goes through its metamorphosis. When we practice lojong, it is tempting to have our own preferences too. We may convince ourselves that certain situations or people don't apply to the slogans. If we are having a bad day, we may rationalize taking a break from practice for a while. Yet slogan forty-eight encourages us to train wholeheartedly and without bias, no matter what conditions arise. The fodder for training that we are sure will be so bitter may be what provides the most benefit.</div>
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<i>The lojong spirit comes from integrating equanimity and loving-kindness, so that we ground our compassion in impartiality. </i>~ Traleg Kyabgon</div>
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<i>For more information on the forty-eighth slogan, go <a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/09/slogan-forty-eight.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i></div>
thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5119676782672421122.post-43886814118523139682016-12-05T05:30:00.000-05:002016-12-05T05:30:06.168-05:00Make the three gates inseparable.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmTN6pwgn9FHeY2IOvE_kzNsxTzId6kThM5SfKLQY_e8X9uC4I-fCH-ZFCMuqWXNoh61TELoUVRQqTcp6ZWCtz1oZ8c_p09k240y-g9n37nzqrtQ2z8BY9l375bBIzOpnA8BwnL5G6Jmk6/s1600/okra.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmTN6pwgn9FHeY2IOvE_kzNsxTzId6kThM5SfKLQY_e8X9uC4I-fCH-ZFCMuqWXNoh61TELoUVRQqTcp6ZWCtz1oZ8c_p09k240y-g9n37nzqrtQ2z8BY9l375bBIzOpnA8BwnL5G6Jmk6/s320/okra.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Okra flower and pod photo by Bob Richmond</i></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Imagine a gardener going to
the farming supply store and buying seeds indiscriminately; he doesn’t even bother
to look at the packs to see what vegetables he’s chosen. After planting the
seeds and watering them for many weeks, the plants begin to produce flowers and
then vegetables. But the gardener becomes upset and frustrated when he sees
what has grown: “I didn’t want okra, peppers and peas! I wanted tomatoes, cucumbers
and squash!” His friends question him as to why he didn’t look at the seed
packets before planting the seeds. Mind training allows us to be aware of the
seeds of emotions and thoughts before we plant them. The mind’s yield of words
and actions are based on the seeds we’ve sown and watered there. The three
gates are the virtues of the mind, speech and body, and we would be wise to be
aware of what we allow to pass through them. What passes through those gates will
likely wind up growing in our yard, whether we want it to or not.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Every act, word, and thought in our
daily life has the power to bring forth a fruit. </span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">~ Thich Nhat Hanh<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><i>For more information on the forty-seventh slogan, go <a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/09/slogan-forty-seven.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i></span></div>
thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5119676782672421122.post-71142081082332533742016-11-28T05:30:00.000-05:002016-11-28T05:30:12.145-05:00Don’t allow three things to diminish.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN-Wd3GwxWbKjhv8m9NcezZ4gp7Sl-8IkCR8sQgkyjyTPhO9rYYpc1qRdwmvGvQKKZlo9PJYbO7KxDFSBigS781m5XQX0OPfvN1E1BLYUhkzZe_4_1Mpn741BXw9cZZqWWLwGTiGarFrhg/s1600/polar+bear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN-Wd3GwxWbKjhv8m9NcezZ4gp7Sl-8IkCR8sQgkyjyTPhO9rYYpc1qRdwmvGvQKKZlo9PJYbO7KxDFSBigS781m5XQX0OPfvN1E1BLYUhkzZe_4_1Mpn741BXw9cZZqWWLwGTiGarFrhg/s320/polar+bear.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Photo by Sindre Kinnerød (<a href="http://worldwildlife.org/">worldwildlife.org</a>)</i></div>
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<i> Ursus maritimus</i> (‘sea bear’) evolved from terrestrial brown bears (<i>Ursus arctos</i>). Though the fur of the polar bear appears white, it is actually transparent; their black skin allows them to soak up as much of the sun’s rays as possible. These bears are dependent on sea ice for hunting, mating and denning. While their evolution allowed them to thrive as a part of the Arctic ecosystem, rising temperatures from climate change has now created a life of struggle. As more of the pack ice diminishes, it has become increasingly difficult for polar bears to travel, feed and raise young. Whether they survive or become extinct is intricately tied to whether the ice endures. Slogan forty-six cautions that the durability of our practice relies on respect for our mentor, enthusiasm for the teachings and a firm commitment to awaken our mind and heart. If we are interested in more than just a fling with mind training, we will make sure these things don’t diminish. Unlike the polar bear, we do have a choice.<br />
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<i>Go forward with curiosity, wondering where this experiment will lead. This kind of open-ended inquisitiveness captures the spirit of enthusiasm, or heroic perseverance.</i> ~ Pema Chodron</div>
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<i>For more information on the forty-sixth slogan go <a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/09/slogan-forty-six.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i></div>
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thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5119676782672421122.post-27821306490962976582016-11-21T05:30:00.000-05:002016-12-01T06:58:20.653-05:00Take on the three principal causes.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC6S386i_62_YLuyS3prglwfWCcbJbtMTlWuQg2_yWAaY0PoZShSh8g4QFjEeFpKvaReT-MK0wBq3CjEJocv8wadKsg7NyIMAPch3Vtr3_7xj71U0SPAVauNY7tgIJrsvvlgFIdu30XYO0/s1600/BeaverandKit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC6S386i_62_YLuyS3prglwfWCcbJbtMTlWuQg2_yWAaY0PoZShSh8g4QFjEeFpKvaReT-MK0wBq3CjEJocv8wadKsg7NyIMAPch3Vtr3_7xj71U0SPAVauNY7tgIJrsvvlgFIdu30XYO0/s320/BeaverandKit.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Beaver photo by <a href="http://joannekennedy.net/" target="_blank">Joanne Kennedy</a></i></div>
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Beavers rely on three resources to build their dams: a slow-moving stream with a mud bottom, hardwood trees, and stones. Trees with small trunks are cut and placed in the water with the butt downstream. The butts of these logs are weighed down with heavy rocks; the weight of the stones and the stream’s current force the ends down into the mud bed. Branches form the superstructure around the logs, layered to construct walls from 2 to 3 feet thick. Openings between the branches are stuffed with mud and vegetation to further seal the structure. Access to the lodge is through an underwater tunnel, which helps protect the beaver from predators. The ‘three causes’ in this slogan are the primary resources needed for a sturdy foundation; these three things are what will support us as we travel our spiritual path. The first is a compassionate mentor who can teach effectively, and whose knowledge and experience make him or her qualified. The second is our devotion to the teachings themselves – we enthusiastically apply ourselves to the principles and practices. The third is the support we find to continue our training – the encouragement of friends and an economic resource. Just as the beaver is constantly repairing its dam, so we must not become complacent in maintaining the strong base that will help us move forward.<br />
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<i>To practice this slogan is simply to recall all of this when your get grumpy or dissatisfied: remember your community and teachers, remember the importance of mind training, remember that you have what you need to do it.</i> ~ Norman Fischer</div>
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<i>For more information on the forty-fifth slogan, go <a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/09/slogan-forty-five.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i></div>
thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5119676782672421122.post-44460861540945788812016-11-14T05:30:00.000-05:002016-11-14T05:30:00.229-05:00Train in the three difficulties.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghsU0TpIc8-z7n5tpWjBOG75jXqIBZITgqoJYrfkfpUx0bP8fLaxX_zOmrs2HWURiVl864D3U7CuRXNhQd78ANW5wNXyw0mAdYa2teN-vB5t-a012pQn9OUXpBAa-Je1osQCN0jyuiqyu7/s1600/skunk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghsU0TpIc8-z7n5tpWjBOG75jXqIBZITgqoJYrfkfpUx0bP8fLaxX_zOmrs2HWURiVl864D3U7CuRXNhQd78ANW5wNXyw0mAdYa2teN-vB5t-a012pQn9OUXpBAa-Je1osQCN0jyuiqyu7/s320/skunk.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Photo by <a href="http://www.mikelentzphotography.com/index2.php#/home/" target="_blank">Mark Lentz</a></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Striped skunks are generally passive animals, yet they
are well-known for their defensive behavior. If these skunks feel threatened,
they will raise their tail and stomp their front legs as a warning. Intruders
or predators who fail to back off get sprayed with a repulsive-smelling musk
that can travel up to 6 meters. The oily spray is difficult to remove and
can cause nausea. If sprayed in the eyes, it may cause intense pain and
temporary blindness. Most animals only need one such encounter to learn to keep
their distance. Fortunately, a skunk’s black and white coloring makes them easy
to recognize. Likewise, the three difficulties encourage us to recognize, back
off and refuse to engage our <i>kleshas</i> –
strong emotions that arise in us and lead to suffering. We don’t need to fight
them; we just pull back and don’t react as we normally do. Instead of getting
hooked by thoughts which add fuel to our desire, we relax and let the emotional
energy move through us. As the emotion dissipates, we experience a sense of
freedom rather than misery. Once these intense states begin to lose their
seductive appeal, we will make it a practice to avoid them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i>Practice paying attention to the tiny little shifts of thought that, like a match to a fuse, cause a big explosion of confusion. </i>~ Judy Lief</div>
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<i>For more information on the forty-fourth slogan, go <a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/08/slogan-forty-four.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i></div>
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<br />thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5119676782672421122.post-468989094818212142016-11-07T05:30:00.000-05:002016-11-07T05:30:24.258-05:00Observe these two, no matter what.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKbXfwk-rRDM1P5HbUNhWk7SXRrMMigRlKl1U7ba7kfjTnrEmyvY47FfrUs4hY5XFKAFsHjqwe6_mhodYNX3xTn5zK66ttkT7hdcAB-kI3GBiLAj9SuL7zMalVYPjx2j-ZpGRjNH4nWjjn/s1600/dormice-Miroslav+Hlavko.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKbXfwk-rRDM1P5HbUNhWk7SXRrMMigRlKl1U7ba7kfjTnrEmyvY47FfrUs4hY5XFKAFsHjqwe6_mhodYNX3xTn5zK66ttkT7hdcAB-kI3GBiLAj9SuL7zMalVYPjx2j-ZpGRjNH4nWjjn/s320/dormice-Miroslav+Hlavko.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Dormice photo by <a href="https://500px.com/hlavkom" target="_blank">Miroslav Hlavko</a></i></div>
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Ethologists use naturalistic observation to study animals. Focusing on behavior patterns, they are interested in the responses that are triggered by the conditions in the animal’s environment. These scientists compile an ethogram, or activity catalog, of a species throughout its life cycle. For each behavior pattern noted, ethologists ask, “How does this impact the animal’s chance of survival and ability to reproduce?” Though staying alive and procreation may be the primary focus of wild animals, the two vows of slogan forty-three asks us to redirect our concerns to encompass more than just self-preservation. The vow of refuge shapes the choices we make through following the example and teachings of Buddha while drawing on the support of our spiritual community. The vow of the bodhisattva shapes our relationships through our commitment to be of beneficial service to others. These two promises give us a reason to stay grounded in reality rather than trying to escape it, which is what waking up is all about.</div>
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<i>All vows are included in this one commitment: to be committed to paying attention to our lives, to be honest about what is going on and unflinchingly realistic about how we are behaving and thinking. </i>~ Norman Fischer</div>
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<i>For more information on slogan forty-three, go <a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/08/slogan-forty-three.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i></div>
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thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5119676782672421122.post-63540555005054368182016-10-31T18:38:00.000-04:002016-10-31T18:38:02.989-04:00 Whichever of the two occurs, be patient.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLV6UwkmHL9-2Nr79NREfJF8BHrmtiKqu7CazuiO3MUp2xc0xE6IxgrUCklXk0ledUse4Ci9tN1Xv-qJ7DAoqZg6cMS1MvWv2tHZoEcJS1yH0hGKRcpS1IKPOH3xfpUo5t1LAYX-6eQaEc/s1600/lighthouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLV6UwkmHL9-2Nr79NREfJF8BHrmtiKqu7CazuiO3MUp2xc0xE6IxgrUCklXk0ledUse4Ci9tN1Xv-qJ7DAoqZg6cMS1MvWv2tHZoEcJS1yH0hGKRcpS1IKPOH3xfpUo5t1LAYX-6eQaEc/s320/lighthouse.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Photo by <a href="http://malcolmmacgregorphotography.com/" target="_blank">Malcolm MacGregor</a></i></div>
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“If you don’t like the weather in New England now, just wait a few minutes,” was Mark Twain’s tongue-in-cheek way to describe the climate of the northeastern states. The weather is so changeable, Barry Keim and Gregory Zielinski wrote a book in an attempt to examine and explain it. The authors state, “Not only is the weather quite variable from season to season, but it includes extremes of both hot and cold temperatures, droughts, heavy rainfall, hurricanes, tornadoes, blizzards and more.” A look at the map of the USDA’s Plant Hardiness Zones illustrates the variations, identifying five different hardiness zones in New England. The forty-second slogan also urges us to be patient, because change will come. There’s no need to get obsessed if things are going great or go berserk if things are going terrible. Instead of using these fluctuating circumstances as an excuse not to practice, our commitment to lojong can help us not get swept away. The slogans can teach us how to creatively deal with life in beneficial ways, no matter how conditions may change.</div>
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<i>Whichever of the two occurs, keep your mind spacious, maintaining a sense of equanimity no matter what the circumstances.</i> ~ B. Alan Wallace</div>
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<i>For more information on the forty-second slogan, go <a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/08/slogan-forty-two.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i></div>
thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5119676782672421122.post-60518586231956180052016-10-24T05:30:00.000-04:002016-10-24T05:30:01.616-04:00Two activities: one at the beginning, one at the end.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<img alt="File:Little Gasparilla sunrise.jpg" height="240" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/3d/Little_Gasparilla_sunrise.jpg/800px-Little_Gasparilla_sunrise.jpg" width="320" /></div>
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<i>Photo from <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=30614607" target="_blank">Wikimedia Commons</a></i></div>
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When the sun sits low on the horizon, sunlight has to travel through more of the Earth’s atmosphere. Along the way, rays of light encounter small particles and gas molecules that change their direction. The shorter wavelengths of blue and violet are scattered in a new direction more often than the longer wavelengths of orange and red. This is the reason sunrises and sunsets are generally red, orange and yellow; clouds act as projection screens for the colors. The skyline’s changing colors at dawn and dusk are a good reminder to practice this slogan. It encourages us to start our morning with intention and end our day with reflection. We begin the day with a cheerful attitude with an aim to keep our heart and mind open no matter what comes. In the evening, we look back on how well we carried out our intention. We don’t use what we find as a reason to gloat or feel guilty, but as information to better guide our thoughts and actions the next day. Such a simple commitment allows us to rededicate ourselves to the cause of compassion on a daily basis.</div>
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<i>You can look at each day as a practice period, with a beginning and an end. So every morning you take a fresh start, and every evening you have a chance to appraise how you have done.</i> </div>
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~ Judy Lief</div>
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<i>For more information on the forty-first slogan, go <a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/08/slogan-forty-one.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i></div>
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<br />thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5119676782672421122.post-86701676701194918352016-10-17T05:30:00.000-04:002016-10-18T08:49:09.210-04:00Correct all wrongs with one intention.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4BhbZoEqzhzehwBUxESt_O4Z6HjAca8mgrbLlqa_iwxXsLJLSYnnzlqMwm05c1PUt5uetM-p0xEtBMh81LIXjA8TOHri_O5NXngg30qNEg4KuSJtV9ViKYaERfRtmjj4cvPltTV3V0aG6/s1600/bonsai-wired.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4BhbZoEqzhzehwBUxESt_O4Z6HjAca8mgrbLlqa_iwxXsLJLSYnnzlqMwm05c1PUt5uetM-p0xEtBMh81LIXjA8TOHri_O5NXngg30qNEg4KuSJtV9ViKYaERfRtmjj4cvPltTV3V0aG6/s320/bonsai-wired.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Wired bonsai – <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Bonsai_IMG_6394.jpg" target="_blank">Photo from Wikimedia Commons</a></i></div>
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Bonsai is the Japanese art form of growing miniature trees in pots. Wiring is one technique bonsai artists use to train and reposition the trunk and branches. Copper or aluminum wire can be wrapped around a branch to create a certain shape, change the position of foliage, or suggest movement and age. The wire provides stability until the branches are set into its new form. Just as the wire provides support for the miniature trees, so too can an altruistic resolve help reinforce our practice. When life delivers a series of discouragements or difficulties, we can get off track in our spiritual path. Our meditation period may be shoved to the side as self-interest consumes our attention and time. Yet this slogan suggests we can use our challenges to find our way back: we use our adversity to remember the suffering of other people. When we rededicate ourselves to the service of others, we extract ourselves from the mire of self-pity and lose our sense of isolation. Our altruistic focus becomes the wire that reshapes our self-seeking behavior into benevolence that supports us as well.<br />
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<i>If egocentrism is a constant source of torment, it is quite otherwise for altruism and compassion. </i>~ Matthieu Ricard</div>
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<i>For more information on the fortieth slogan, go <a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/08/slogan-forty.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i></div>
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thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5119676782672421122.post-52779457099226357202016-10-10T05:30:00.000-04:002016-10-10T05:30:15.577-04:00All activities should be done with one intention.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeh_A2jcZkA87f7LxNN3aV_O8kZUYwDz8d7EvhZUXoCx0eODvuZkKYv_QFAXzXi9bNCTW5qC7yrmac5BOzTj6y6Ewus7j_397F8H0pBbDjdodZYJcQg9LjhShuRThSc__gnK0SJZjGOPan/s1600/waterfall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeh_A2jcZkA87f7LxNN3aV_O8kZUYwDz8d7EvhZUXoCx0eODvuZkKYv_QFAXzXi9bNCTW5qC7yrmac5BOzTj6y6Ewus7j_397F8H0pBbDjdodZYJcQg9LjhShuRThSc__gnK0SJZjGOPan/s320/waterfall.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Photo by <a href="http://hubsphotographytips.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tom Hubbard</a></i></div>
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Whether it's a trickling stream or a rushing river, water in nature rarely flows in a straight line. It meanders as it seeks the path of least resistance, preferring to turn and tumble in a new direction when it encounters obstacles. Over long periods of time, it can erode most terrain and may begin to change direction. Yet the one thing that all natural streams and rivers consistently do is flow downhill due to gravity. Even if the force of water is so great as to push it uphill briefly (such as in a flood), water will ultimately be influenced by gravity. What compels us in the same way gravity does water? Usually it is the ego, prompting us to think, speak and act according to its desires. Yet this slogan encourages us to be concerned for everyone, not just ourselves. Patience, kindness and understanding can guide us as we move through our day.</div>
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<i>The one intention is to have a sense of gentleness toward others and a willingness to be helpful to others - always. </i>~ Chogyam Trungpa</div>
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<i>For more information on the thirty-ninth slogan, go <a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/07/slogan-thirty-nine.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i></div>
thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5119676782672421122.post-16399568313333430092016-10-03T05:30:00.000-04:002016-10-03T05:30:14.825-04:00Don’t seek others’ pain as the limbs of your own happiness.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsZDIAbou3bseqsyx50iHccbU2K9TDrgCcZXHRrGZeDI_zY2wgxNQQKiGLlikENzsEnbXmPtWmGjrgNakEE8hfu3E6MijUF7FTPyCh_PHLfJBzESUAxXfhY6CcV1U-l1zC7X34n29wQiCq/s1600/Turkey_Vulture2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsZDIAbou3bseqsyx50iHccbU2K9TDrgCcZXHRrGZeDI_zY2wgxNQQKiGLlikENzsEnbXmPtWmGjrgNakEE8hfu3E6MijUF7FTPyCh_PHLfJBzESUAxXfhY6CcV1U-l1zC7X34n29wQiCq/s320/Turkey_Vulture2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Turkey Vulture - Photo by <a href="http://www.birdsasart-blog.com/" target="_blank">Arthur Morris</a></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> Turkey vultures are often spotted making wobbly circles
in the sky, as they take advantage of rising thermals. These large birds lack a
vocal organ and thus produce only grunts and hissing sounds. What they lack in
vocalization however, they make up for in olfaction. Turkey vultures are
scavengers, feeding almost exclusively on carrion. They forage by smell and are
able to use their unusual ability even above a tree canopy. The scent of ethyl
mercaptan, a gas produced by animals in the first stage of decay, alerts them
to a possible food source. Humans also have a way of sniffing out what is foul
and unfortunate – not to be helpful but for the sake of indulgence. Those who
have caused us suffering (real or perceived) are the people in whom we’re most
interested. Our self-righteous, indignant side would like them to drown in
misery, preferably slowly and painfully. But the happiness we seek in their
unhappiness won’t bring genuine joy. This fake form of happiness is based in
deluded thinking and fueled by our attachment to a memory of hurt. Such a desire
only results in dissatisfaction and frustration. Authentic happiness, on the other hand, is
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<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Has your heart been kind? </span></i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">~ Atisha<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i>For more information on the thirty-eighth slogan, go <a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/07/slogan-thirty-eight.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i></div>
thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5119676782672421122.post-33588280309019914082016-09-26T05:30:00.000-04:002016-09-26T05:30:25.108-04:00Don't make gods into demons.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPH8Ic2kz_BDkaV3EDwET6gRzbxEhYff4MSem_XK64NHL9i-p2gajzXyP6ZYss48gKbX94C5dz0kR8sHe9ZQPpY3QxlbD4cVxJxiEaZrzGHzA4xtbrjKA9q5SLcGBL3nabh7y-ugYcDgoM/s1600/AsianLadybug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPH8Ic2kz_BDkaV3EDwET6gRzbxEhYff4MSem_XK64NHL9i-p2gajzXyP6ZYss48gKbX94C5dz0kR8sHe9ZQPpY3QxlbD4cVxJxiEaZrzGHzA4xtbrjKA9q5SLcGBL3nabh7y-ugYcDgoM/s320/AsianLadybug.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-font-kerning: 14.0pt;">Asian
lady beetle with aphids – Photo by <a href="http://www.natgeocreative.com/photography/jefmeulnismindenpictures" target="_blank">Jef Meul</a></span></i></div>
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During the 1970s, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Forestry Commission released large numbers of <i>Harmonia axyridis</i> to reduce the need for pesticides in forests, farmlands and gardens. Capable of eating 5000 aphids in its lifetime, the Asian ladybug has proven itself to be a beneficial form of pest control. This non-native species can vary in color from red or orange to a dull cream and can be found with or without spots. The white ‘cheeks’ of this beetle are marked with a black W (or M). Unfortunately houses resemble the caves these insects used as shelter in Asia during the winter months, so they tend to invade homes when it turns cold. The beetles will also nip (without breaking the skin) and can release a yellow, smelly substance from their joints as a defensive measure. Once praised for their amazing control of aphids, mites and scale insects, Asian lady beetles are now condemned for exhibiting their natural behavior. Likewise, the thirty-seventh slogan implores us not to let the ego convince us that what is helpful has become too much of a hassle to tolerate. Often we succumb to the idea that spiritual practice should remove all of our challenges and keep us from any pain. But mind training is not about building up the ego and separating ourselves from what is unpleasant. Instead of using all our energy trying to make something go away, we can consider how we can work with it.</div>
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<i>No matter what is going on, there are always small moments in which we can find some joy or relief if we are open to them. ~ </i>Norman Fischer</div>
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<i>For more information on the thirty-seventh slogan, go <a href="http://lojongforthelayperson.blogspot.com/2015/07/slogan-thirty-seven.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</i></div>
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<br />thesycamoretreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15182019323050600440noreply@blogger.com0