The way out.....

How long has life been lead by defilement? Every time when an object impinge on one of the senses, have you observed how automatic the mind react, motivated by defilements such as anger, pride, jealous, ill-will, despair, resentment and many more?

It is strange to observe that a seemingly harmless object, such as a person that appears in front of us, can trigger many reactions in us. The mind can suddenly become angry, or despise the person. Many times, the mind judges the person, on his clothing, his behaviour, his action, etc. But, have we contemplate further whether the judgment is due to the person or because of the thoughts arising in our own mind?

While driving in a situation where there is traffic congestion, are we able to observe that there will be irritation? And are we capable to know that the dirty words, harsh words that come out from the mouth are due to this irritation? Can we know that at this time, we have been lead by defilements by the nose? We just follow what the defilements ask us to do without questioning. We are indeed a very obedient follower of defilements.

Our life has actually been conditioned by defilements. If we observe carefully, beneath each thought, each action, there is defilement. Most actions and thoughts are motivated by defilement. And thus, there is suffering. Without looking at the root cause, we try to avoid the dis-ease by running after what we think can bring us happiness. And following behind, without fail, are the defilements.

Is there any way out? Of course! The great masters of the past have shown the way. What I choose to follow is the way of awareness and mindfulness. By being aware, we are able to observe the mind impartially and then able to understand how the mind works. With the understanding, the wisdom knows the mind inside out, and no more will the mind follows the defilements.

What to aspire here is to have 100% awareness, every moment, with 100% alertness and awakeness.