Copyright 2010 SOUL Research Institute
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THE HAPPY-PEACEFUL MIND
Mind that abides in "equinimity" is the happy-peaceful mind.
Equanimity is neutrality of mind, that which keeps mind in the middle between deficiency and excess, between craving and aversion. Here, the word “middle” does not mean a quantitative mid-point (for example, 50 being the mid-point between 0 and 100) but a qualitative core (a center) related to mental balance.
Equanimity is not just the absence of craving and aversion; also it is that which makes the mind balanced and impartial. Mere absence of craving and aversion does not automatically result in a balanced state of mind. When craving and aversion are eradicated, equanimity arises and makes the mind balanced. In this sense, equanimity has its own intrinsic functional nature.
In an equanimious mind, there is no trace of disapproval or approval, repulsion or attraction. A person in a state of equanimity does not choose comforts or discomforts, affluence or poverty. He is disinterested in these matters because he has transcended the issue of pleasures and pain. He is truely happy and at peace in all circumstances. But his happiness and peace is rooted in contentment and renunciation, and not abandonment or indifference.
A classic example of confusion about equanimity is assuming that equanimity leads to indifference if practiced while dealing with others. This is not true because in order to deal with others with equanimity you have to first develop the foundation of loving-kindness, compassion, and gladness: the three elements of love which we discussed in prior newsletter (see links below). Without the foundation of the elements of love, yes, you may develop indifference towards others, but not equanimity.
The practice of loving-kindness, compassion, and gladness towards other people can only make us equanimous towards them. These practices can only make us impartial, unprejudiced, and neutral towards all beings, including ourselves. These practices can only help us break down the barriers by helping us see all (including ourselves) equally. (Please click on the links to the right to find out how that happens).
SOUL RESEARCH INSTITUTE NEWSLETTER, MAY 15, 2011
EVENTS AT S.R.I.
INSPIRATIONS
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"Happy the man
who can endure
the highest
and
the lowest
fortune.."
Seneca
"Anything
that helps you maintain unruffled equinimity
is right action.."
Sathya Sai Baba
"Abide in equinimity
and you will become
a refreshing source of vitality and happiness
for others.."
Buddha
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When we mature in the practices of loving-kindness, compassion, and gladness, and equanimity arises out of that, we no longer have any friends or enemies. We no longer love one person more than another. Having transcended differences and discrimination, we become neutral. We become like “space,” which is impartial towards all beings and formations and yet encompasses all. If space were the body of a person, then equanimity would be that person’s mind and happiness and peace would be that person's abiding quality.
Soul Meditation Group is now growing in Portland, OR. Venue:
Weekly Wednesdays at
Sam Adettiwar's book:
"The Elements of Soul"
Sunday Gatherings and Potluck
May 15, 11: Sam Adettiwar will discuss "What Consciousness Really Is?" and lead meditations.
May 22, 11: Art Sanchez will lead yoga and meditation followed by discussion.
Come and go anytime as you likeNO FEES. JUST PRACTICE.
10.00-10.30am: Soul Yoga
10.30-11.00am: Soul Breathing
11.00-11.30am: Meditation
11.30-Noon: Questions/Answers, Presentations, Videos, etc.
Noon - 12.30pm: Potluck (Veg.)
12.30 - Whatever: Noble Discussion
Where: Fire Dept. Hall: 2490 Research Parkway, Briargate Area, Colorado Springs, CO
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Consultation on Yoga and Meditation Practice
Please reserve date and time asap. All consultations are confidential and cost-free. Donations are gladly accepted.
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