Celebrating the 2,600-year anniversary of Lord Buddha’s Enlightenment, I would like to take this opportunity as the editor of this issue of “Dhammasawasdee” to discuss humanity’s most important duty. This duty is to follow the footsteps of our great teacher or the steps towards Nibbana.
At first glance, this topic may seem rather serious and not so interesting for many readers. But before you turn the page and put down this magazine, I would like you to give yourselves a chance by reading this article just once. If you enjoy it and read it again or recommend it to others, I will be delighted.
2,600 years ago. Prince Siddhartha sat down under the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree to emancipate himself from all suffering. On the following day, he stood up as a new person, Buddha, who is truly aware, awakened and pure. What sort of understanding did he achieve? What had happened? How did all ignorance and suffering disappear overnight? How can we follow his example? How can we reach the end of suffering and ignorance?
Let me begin by telling you about my own experience.
Before the study of Dhamma entered my life, my goal was worldly success-work, money, and family. I never thought about happiness or success in Dhamma. When I lost my beloved husband, I was miserable. I began to question why I was so sad. What else was there in life? I had everything, money, recognition, work, and loving children who took such good care of me, but why was I so miserable? This was the reason I began to seek the path of Dhamma for the first time.
Since then, I have studied and practiced Dhamma for eight years. Today, I have absolute hope and faith that Nibbana, the ultimate end to all suffering, is possible in a human being’s lifetime. We all have that potential if we are genuinely determined to walk the path toward “true liberation”.
At this point, many readers may begin to wonder, “How is it possible to reach Nibbana in our chaotic daily life?”
I personally assure you that it is certainly possible, but we need to begin with a more accurate understanding of the word “Nibbana.”
As a matter of fact, Nibbana is not a divine state that is out of reach. It is a mental state filled with happiness, calm and freedom from defilements. Even if we can enter such state only for a moment, it is already an experience of Nibbana.
This kind of Nibbana is considered “worldly Nibbana” or what Buddhadasa refers to as “momentary Nibbana.” Although it is temporary, I believe that this kind of experience is precious for all human beings and makes our existence worthy.
In order to reach the state of happiness, tranquility, cool, and freedom from wants, the most direct and effective method is the practice of Satipatthana (4foundations of mindfulness). It is the practice of being aware of our present physical and mental states. Our mind is firmly focused, and we reach a true realization of the facts of life, under the Law of Tilakkhana: Anniccan, Dukkan, and Anatta. It is a state of detachment from all things including the self.
All this may seem like a daunting task, but in practice, I have adapted it so that it is not so difficult.
During the initial stages of my Dhamma practice, I used to consider abandoning all worldly activities, in search of Dhamma ways. Once I had examined my true nature and inclination, I decided that the time had not come. Through worldly activities, I could be more useful both to myself and others.
I have, therefore, combined Dhamma practice, work and daily life. Every night, before going to bed, I pray, pay respect to the Buddha image and practice mindful walking and meditation for one hour. During the day, I observe my breathing and my present state of mind. Sometimes I forget, but once I remember, I would return to being mindful of my present physical and mental states. My principle is, “Be happy with the small progress.” Little by little, I would practice “daytime Nibbana” throughout the day, to prepare myself to reach the eventual state of “Permanent Nibbana.”
Besides the personal benefits of being able to reach momentary states of happiness, tranquility, cool, and freedom from effectiveness at work. When our mind is not preoccupied with wants, we will have the focus, wisdom, and creativity which will guide us through difficulties. We also become happier and less sad.
Nevertheless, I have decided last year to reduce my worldly responsibilities by passing on the CEO position to my daughter (Rarin Utakapan Panjarungroj), and to concentrate on what I am genuinely interested in, which is to produce Dhamma books and to advise the editorial team of Secret Magazine. I also offer advice to my children and our company’s executives from time to time. This year, I intend to take a break from worldly duties on Buddhist holy days, so I can have more time for Dhamma work, or to be more in the present with my body and mind.
In my view, it is time to practice letting go. One day, we will have to let go of everything; we cannot hold on to anything including our bodies. My next exercise, therefore, is to practice letting go gradually so that one day I can let go of everything and enter a permanent state of bliss, calm and cool.
What you have just read is a story about my measured steps along the path of liberation which probably does seem so profound when compared to that of a compassionate friend who has devoted herself to the path of the Great Teacher while enjoying her life to the fullest. This friend is Khunying Chamnongsri Hanchanlash, President of Rutnin Eye Hospital, who wrote “The Art of Lightness” and “Rolling the Mortar Downhill.”
“I started on the Path when I was around 30. Out of curiosity, not faith. But as my interest deepened through reading and discussions, I decided to experiment with a few days’ solitary meditation retreat. It was then that faith came – through contact with and realization of the nature of the body and the mind, the body/mind interaction, the ‘thusness’ of it all. Also from seeing how fear and desire worked, rooted in the indomitable axis – the ‘I’.
"But then, as life turned into a whirlwind with incredible mixture of ups and downs, I lost touch with Dhamma and the Practice. Only when I reached the depth of dukha, did I turn back to the Dhamma. I went to Suan Mokh in Chaiya at the time when Tan Ajahn Buddhadasa and Tan Ajahn Runjuan Indrakamhaeng were still teaching. After attending six courses, I stayed on for three more months. And after
a brief period at home, I went off to Wat Doi Dhammachedi for 3 more months.
That year, I spent a total of more than eight months in forest monasteries, practicing very earnestly. Those solitary times with unspoiled nature deepened my love for the forests. Today, I still go off every now and then to tranquil places where Nature reigns. In everyday life, I practice with awareness of the breath, or the body and the mind, or just the ‘knowing’.
"For anyone who is on the Path, the goal is there without having to be ‘set’. However, there are ups and downs in the practice but I don’t really worry how near or far I am from the point of ultimate liberation. Walking straight along Sukumvit from Pleonchit you are bound to reach Asoke intersection, right? Sooner or later, depending on your strength. I don’t think being anxious or trying to get there in a hurry helps. Shortcuts might end in a blind alley, or you may fall and break your leg. Then, it might take you much longer, or you might never get there at all.
"In my view, Dhamma practice doesn’t mean leading a boring life, and having no worldly joy, since we are not ordained. On the contrary, if we can find a balance between worldly and Dhamma matters, we will lead an even more fulfilling life. I myself enjoy every day of my life with my loving husband, and we are able to do a lot of beneficial work. Every detail in life is an opportunity for Dhamma practice, meditation, and being aware of our present physical and mental states.
"Traveling is fun no jet lags, sleeping well wherever we happen to be. When abroad with my husband, I love to walk in cities, in the countryside.
"It is a good way of getting to know little streets and seeing this and that along the way. Sometimes I cover seven or eight kilometers on foot. I always feel confident and free when walking a good distance alone.
"This year I shall be 72. The Dhamma has helped me to feel light and unfettered, enjoying my children and grandchildren without being a burden to them. Though Dhamma practice, I have become easygoing, and I enjoy living. When I am traveling, it is always fun as I sleep well and need not worry.
"I have constant awareness of death, knowing that it can come any time, any place. It’s something we can’t ask for appeal. Once dead I won’t be able to help anyone, so I won’t worry about my children or grandchildren when the time comes.
I have done what I can for them, so that’s that. When I go to bed, I silently bid goodbye to everyone, my husband, children, grandchildren, as I might not wake up the next morning. Things that are done are done. Things not done or not completed will have to be left as is. With that, I go to sleep. When I wake up, it feels fresh to be alive again."
Born as a human being, one goes through joys, through sufferings, and end in death. Why not take this opportunity as a human being to release oneself from the cycle of suffering?”
As you can see, life on the path of detachment is not as difficult as it seems and can bring happiness in unexpected ways.
By now, some readers may think, “There is nothing unusual about retired people practicing Dhamma since they have nothing else to do.”
To address this way of thinking, I have invited two other compassionate friends to talk about their paths toward eternal liberation even though they are rather young. Their Dhamma lives are no less beautiful, complete and balanced.
We will begin with Khun Pang-Pattarin Sorsotthikul Managing Director of Renova Group Co., Ltd and author of “Boon Box” series.
“From a very young age, I have observed the ways of life of people around me and wondered why we lead rather similar lives. We go to school, start working, get married, and start a family. Eventually, we become old, sick and we die. When I look at my own life, it is not so different.
" ‘What is the purpose of our lives?’ This is the question that has been in mind. When I began my Dhamma practice, I found an answer. Not only did it remove all the doubts in my mind, but it also answered all the questions that followed. It became easier to be happy and more difficult to feel sad. I began to have faith in Buddha and Dhamma practice which has been the goal of my life.
"Every day, I try to practice balancing my worldly and Dhamma work. I believe it is possible for everyone. At the heart of time management is how we set priorities in life. If we think something is important, we will find the time for it. As an entrepreneur, I need to take care of my business. Luckily, I have a strong management team, so my role is to design the overall picture and create policies and strategies.
"By Dhamma work, I mean taking care of one’s own body and mind. We have to do it on our own. Although I am busy, I always find time for Dhamma practices. If anything is unnecessary, I try to do it less and less. In the last 2-3 years, after work, I choose to spend time alone quietly. I don’t watch TV and try to consume less information which has led to a much more balanced life.
"Most importantly, I believe that we can practice Dhamma anytime, anywhere. A Dhamma practice consists of three parts: Sila, Dana, and Bhavana. Sila 5 are simple practices for laypeople, and they lead to a pure mind. For Dana, there is Dhammadana, Abayadana or even smiling or sharing good things with others when you can. These are little things that we can do in daily life.
"For Bhavana, I regularly meditate or practice mindful walking for an hour or so in the morning in order to achieve a state of mental stability. During the day, where ever I am, in a meeting, eating, or walking. I try to return to my inner self and practice mindfulness whenever I can.
"Mindful walking or meditation in the morning is difficult as it requires discipline and self-control. But it is very useful. Your mind is stable and you become more aware during the day. Whatever happens, we can maintain our mindfulness. On the contrary, when I am busy, lazy, and neglect my Dhamma practice, then my mind is less clear. I become more easily affected by events around me. When I notice this, I cannot bear the lack of clarity, and I automatically resume my Dhamma practice.
"Today I am happy with doing things slowly, observing my body and my mind, polishing away defilements, gaining self-control. My mind becomes free, calm, and light, although I am still a normal person who is satisfied by gaining, having, and being, as is the nature of individuals who still cannot let go of wants. But Dhamma has taught me to enjoy happiness mindfully and to appreciate moderation because I know that when one still experiences worldly satisfaction, suffering is looking straight at you.
"The balance between the two kinds of happiness, for me, is mindfulness practice which enables us not to be too attached to what we like and do not like, the true cause of suffering. When we become indifferent to everything, we experience a kind of happiness, which is light and free from both positive and negative stimulation.
"At this point, I am still learning and trying to balance my time between worldly duties and Dhamma practices. When I get older, I will reduce my worldly work and engage in more Dhamma practice. I do not know exactly when but it will not be long. I will not wait until my body becomes too weak for mindfulness practices.
"Now I know why we have been born. This is a question also asked by laypeople during Buddha’s time. Buddha’s answer is, ‘We are born to journey towards not being born again, when the causes of suffering, all defilements cease.’ Buddha has given us guidance, a map, and tools as well as detailed instructions. It is up to us whether to take the Path.
I believe that all Buddhists who understand Buddha’s teaching have the same goal: ‘to end suffering permanently or to reach Nibbana’. This is also my goal, and it will be my ultimate achievement as a human being.
Samsara is frightening. If we are still careless and do not follow the Path, there is no knowing when we will reach that destination. As for me, I have begun the journey although I cannot tell when I will arrive…Come join me on this journey.”
My last compassionate friend who will share the story of her journey towards the end of samsara is Khun Oom Siriyakorn Pukkawes, a modern woman with her unique way of thinking, her media persona, and her “unusual” choice of lifestyle.
You may wonder, “Does this celebrity practice Dhamma? How did she get started and is she really one of the Sakyadhita following the path to Nibbana?”
“Dhamma is not at all new to me because I have always been interest in the practice and actually began when I was in Grade 4. But I had to wait 20 years to find the right teacher. At that time, I was asking myself, ‘What would my life be like from now on?’ Then, I received a phone called to tell me that I might try the meditation course by Mother Siri Krinchai of The Young Buddhists Association of Thailand Under the Royal Patronage. That was my first formal meditation course.
Since then, my life has changed significantly. I have been practicing Dhamma regularly by praying, meditating and if I have time, walking mindfully before going to bed. At the beginning, I didn’t understand many things until four years ago. One day, I woke up thinking. I’m unhappy. Even though I have everything, why do I ask my life, ‘Why was I born?’
"Luckily, I had a chance to attend the meditation course at the Goenka Dhamma karnchana Meditation Center in Karnchamaburi. Friends had urged me to go there before, but I wasn’t convinced back then. Through this course, I found the answer. We were ultimately liberation, so we will not be born again.
"Some people may say, ‘Do not create expectations in Dhamma practices. Do not hope to reach Nibbana,’ but I can say that I do hope to reach Nibbana. One needs to have a goal in whatever one does. This is how I have lived my life.
" A Dhamma practice does not enable you to let go without working hard or without ambition. I still devote my every best to everything that I do, but I have Panna and Upekkha to create balance in my life. If I do my best, but the outcome is not what I have hoped for, I can accept it.
"This is also the way I think about Nibbana. If in the end I am born again, that is how it will be. But my intention is to become ordained, away worldly life, if I am reborn as a man. But that is something that will happen in the unknown future. For now, I just think that although I am a woman, I can still practice Dhamma because it is nature. We practice Dhamma according to our nature, but we must be focused and brave. Battling with defilements is the most difficult task of all.
Nevertheless, I believe that the most important thing for this journey is that we have to live with the bodily and mental truth. What is our present mental state? What happens when we face temptations? We just keep learning without having unreasonable expectations. Many people say that Dhamma practitioners must not be angry, greedy, or ignorant. But I want to say that Dhamma practitioners are still not free from defilements, but we become more aware of them. For instance, I still go shopping, but I do it more mindfully, and I can see myself and how greed works.
"With this way of thinking, I have become much happier. Every day, I still enjoy my worldly life, and I actually find more fun in it because at the same time, I am learning and testing my mind’s strength. I once told an adventure friend that a Dhamma practice is even more challenging than bungee jumping.
In my daily life, apart from doing what I love such as acting and producing the TV show ‘I Will Be a Farmer’, I practice Dhamma every day. I meditate for two hours and observe my state of mind many times during the day. Whenever I have time, I attend the Goenka meditation course.
Whatever happens, my final destination is the same, which is the liberation from the cycle of suffering…in the end.”
Finally, to re-emphasize the beauty of a life devoted to the Path of Buddha, I would like to end this article with the experience and views of Venerable Sansanee Sathirasuta Sakyadhita who is leading others on the Path to Liberation. She has sacrificed her personal comfort to pave the way for us toward Nibbana.
“From the beginning until now, it has been 30 years on this Dhamma Path. One thing that has not changed is my final destination, the calm and cool place called ‘Nibbana’. All along, I have devoted myself to mindfulness practices, to have Panna, Sila and Samadhi in every action, word, and thought, continually observing my actions in the present.
"At the same time, my aim is to ‘Vimutti’ or the ultimate freedom while being able to benefit the world and society. This is the task of Sathira-Dhammasathan for the last 25 years. As I am walking down the Noble Path, I am giving the same opportunity to others.
Sathira-Dhammasathan is committed to introducing Dhamma to society through different media channels such as the radio, television, magazines, and the internet. We also offer regular meditation courses. The most important task, however, is Dhamma for women and children. I began 20 years ago when many children were abandoned. Many people asked, ‘How can Buddhism be involved?’ That’s why I started the project ‘Ban Saisamphan’ to help mothers with unwanted pregnancy raise their children. Although they have been badly abused physically and emotionally. Dhamma has helped heal their wounds and nurture both the mothers and the children.
"This project, however, is still focused on short-term solutions. Our next step is prevention, so we have come up with the project ‘Purity of the Mind from inside the Womb’. We will help parents prepare themselves to raise children who will follow the Noble Path and to build a family of mindfulness, from birth till death. As you can see, our work begins at the beginning of life and continues until it is returned once again to nature.
"My latest project is Savika Sikkhalaya which began three years ago as a university of Dhamma. Young people will be encouraged to follow the Buddha’s teachings, to uphold Dhamma as the core of their livelihood. Graduates will receive degrees from Maha Chulalongkorn University. Our objective is to provide an opportunity for women to study Dhamma. This is a concept that I came up with 30 years ago. Women will not be victimized if they have knowledge and wisdom which is developed through mindfulness practice. In this way, they will have a good look at their own lives and protect both their body and their mind, managing both positive and negative impacts with wisdom, awareness and joy.
Savika Sikkhalaya is created for the teaching of Dhamma. One can embrace Dhamma without leaving the worldly sphere completely, but one can live without being tainted by it. Live as a noble person engaged only in good deeds with compassionate friends to show the way. It is a community of monks and laypeople who live by Dhamma principles. Our task is, therefore, ‘To produce Noble Individuals it is not impossible.’
Today, we are earnestly continuing the projects of Sathira-Dhammasathan, with the will give and determination to help and support others. I have an inner commitment to release myself from Samsara and the outer commitment to serve humanity as a gesture of gratitude towards Lord Buddha. No matter what attire I am wearing or how I am referred to, as long as my journey is on the Noble Path of mindfulness, being able to live the rest of my life peacefully and in the most beneficial way as a daughter of Buddha…that is all.”
It is my hope that the journeys of the five Sakyadhita will lead you to a new goal in life and that you begin to believe that “Nibbana” as cessation of suffering is real and possible in our lifetime. All you need to do is to welcome Buddha’s Dhamma into your life and put his teachings into practice.
I can guarantee that once you design Dhamma practice, a state of happiness, calm and freedom will, according to Buddha, enter your life “with seven days, in less than seven months and before seven years elapse.”
จาก : นิตยสารธรรมสวัสดี ฉบับที่ 6 มิถุนายน 2554