Train in the Five Strengths.

Southern Live Oak - photo by Louis Dallara 

          Among the majestic trees of the South, Quercus virginiana is one of the belles of the ball. With sweeping arms that dip to the ground, the live oak's width is about twice that of its height. The tree's deep tap root anchors it when young; as the canopy expands, a lateral root system develops that can radiate up to 90 feet from the trunk. Its low center of gravity and impressive root structure have enabled many live oaks to withstand the force of hurricane winds that claimed the lives of other trees. In the same way, the Five Strengths support us in sustaining the vitality of our practice. Strong determination - the tap root - helps us keep our heart and mind open and connected, regardless of what life presents us. We come to realize, as J.N. Hollingworth stated, that "something is more important than fear." Familiarization allows us to apply what we've learned to whatever each day brings. The seed of goodness is a reminder that everyone already contains a reservoir of tenderness and openness. We just need to water the seed so it will grow. Reproach asks that we first cultivate self-compassion and a sense of humor. Then we can gently smile when we catch red-handed the person responsible for our suffering (our own self). Aspiration gives us encouragement when we feel that we have failed. We can recognize our current limits while aspiring to develop beyond them. These essential instructions are aids in maintaining our course through any weather.

You are the sky. Everything else – it’s just the weather. ~ Pema Chodron

For more information on the seventeenth slogan, go here.

Slogan Seventeen

Train in the Five Strengths.

From the Lojong for the Layperson booklet:

1) Strong determination - As spiritual warriors, we intentionally stay connected to our higher goals and maintain our practice. Yet we retain an attitude of appreciation and playfulness instead of drudgery and dread. 

2) Familiarization - Through repetition we establish new habits that we consciously cultivate. We begin to develop a natural response which brings us back to mindfulness and awareness.

3) Seed of virtue - This strength reminds us of who we really are - our human potential for wisdom, compassion, and loving-kindness.

4) Reproach - Instead of blaming ourselves, we see the ego as the cause of our suffering. We let it know we are aware of its habits that result in our pain, and we tell it we refuse to be fooled anymore.

5) Aspiration - Our vows help cut through negativity and serve to empower us. We commit to the service of others, cultivating mindfulness and loving-kindness, and attaining enlightenment. These aspirations give us an objective to keep working toward.

Photo: Mophead hydrangea bloom surrounded by five Kimberly Queen fern fronds.

            Sometimes it’s easier to understand a concept when I look at its opposite:

1) Strong determination becomes Lukewarm effort – I only practice when it’s convenient or when I have nothing else better to do.

2) Familiarization becomes Unnatural response – When I find myself in dire straits, I just react out of habit. I don’t do anything new because it doesn't feel comfortable.

3) Seed of virtue becomes Source of sin – I choose to believe people have a predisposition toward vice; this idea of human nature makes a convenient scapegoat for my unwillingness to change and my lack of kindness.

4) Reproach (of the ego) becomes Shame – I am worthless, so why even try? (Do you feel sorry for me?)

5) Aspiration becomes Aimless Apathy – Commitment and pledges require a sustained effort; I’d rather just spend time only doing what looks interesting or fun.