Trying out The Eightfold Path | Basically Nonsense

|Enlightenment|

Yesterday's blog was pretty much crap and I think it was because I had nothing to talk about. Now I think I have found something a little more interesting to publish. ( At least to me)

So in my first period history class we are learning about Buddhism. Now, I have always had this strong interest in the whole Buddhist religion, which is kind of ironic I guess being that I'm like the most negative person I know. Maybe it'd because I truly want to be able to be so happy and calm. So nice and accepting toward people. I guess that's why they call it journey. 

I don't know why it made me think so much throughout the day but something, whether it be what my teacher said or what I read in the text book, hit me.

I've realized that it would be completely idiotic to say "whelp I'm a Buddhist now. Let me give up everything and stop killing mosquitoes because I'm enlightened". I simply just think I want to work everyday to get a little bit closer to the this great nirvana they speak of. I want to be truly happy, and from what I've seen, these people are.

I think I want to start by taking a good look at the 4 noble truths and the eightfold path. It's a starting point and I feel like it's the part that needs to be most understood to find this "happiness".

The Four Noble Truths
1. Ordinary life brings about suffering.
2. The origin of suffering is desire.
3. The way to end suffering is to end desire.
4. Overcoming desires is to follow the eightfold Path.

In a nutshell, what I feel like this is saying is that the misery and suffering that you get from everyday life is brought on by the desire for more things, whether they be materialistic or otherwise. You have to stop worrying about all the things you want and "need" and be happy for what you have received in life and what you can give to other people.

Now the fourth noble truth has a little extra to it and it is the part I really want to instill in myself daily.

The Eightfold Path

1. Right View (Understanding) - See the world as it really is.
2. Right Intention - Decide what you really want.
3. Right Speech - Communicate thoughtfully.
4. Right Action - Take the ethical approach.
5. Right Livelihood - Respect all life.
6. Right Effort - A positive attitude.
7. Right Mindfulness - Being aware of the moment
8. Right Concentration - Uncluttered feelings of calm and peace.

Maybe I'll follow through and in the process become a happier, nicer person. Or maybe I'll just end it like the other things I try but I'm sure it will be worth the shot.

- Until Next Time, XO

"If we could see the miracle of a single flower clearly, our whole life would change."