Writings: Luang Por, and a reminder to let go….

This is a snippet from one of the dharma talks of Ajahn Chah (more familiar to some, affectionately, as Luang Por), with a reminder to let go, let go, let go…

One purpose of morality or virtue is harmony with our spiritual friends. This should be our aim, rather than just trying to fulfill our selfish desires. Knowing one’s position and respecting one’s seniors is an important part of our precepts.

For harmony with the group, we must give up pride and self-importance and attachment to fleeting pleasure. If you do not give up your likes and dislikes, you are not really making an effort.

Not to let go means you seek peace where there is none. Discover this truth for yourself. No need to rely on a teacher outside -mind and body constantly preach to us. Listening to their sermon will remove all doubts.

People get caught in being the leader, the chief, or they get caught in being the student, the follower.

Who can learn from all things without being the student? Who can teach all things without being the chief?

Make bowing a way to care for the entire world around you. Bow with reverence and care. When returning to your cottage put everything down and prostrate first thing. If you go out to sweep, prostrate first. Returning, prostrate. When you have to go to the bathroom, prostrate first, and do it again when you come back, saying in your mind: “Any misdeeds I have done through body, speech, and mind, may I be forgiven.”

Stay mindful always. We monks are very fortunate. We have our dwelling place, good companions, lay support, and the teachings.

All that is left is to practice.

Ajahn Chah