It is said that the Dalai Lama starts his day with 4 hours of meditation and the following intention, “May my thoughts, words, and actions do no harm but be to the benefit of all beings”
I figured if the Dalai Lama starts his day with these words, I will too. So, several months ago, I added the intention to the end of my sitting meditation. I say the words every morning. With sincerity. With commitment.
May my thoughts, words, and actions do no harm but be to the benefit of all beings.
However, I still find myself thinking a thought of ill-will (or two) and engaging in unskillful speech. Then why continue a practice that appears to be ineffective?
Because it has helped me become more aware of my thoughts and speech and in the awareness lies my power to choose. Sometimes, the awareness arises as I’m about to speak and I can Backspace in my mind and say something beneficial instead. At other times, the recognition comes in the middle or at the end of a sentence uttered. Then the inner critic wants to have a field day. But if I take a breath and remind myself of the truth of it all, I can keep going.
The truth of it is: These thoughts do not belong to me, they arise out of causes and conditions. When I am mindful of them, I can choose which thoughts to set aside and which thoughts to serve tea. For the benefit of all beings.