a buddhist carnival – 2nd edition, part 3

okay, here we go, part three of this month’s buddhist carnival. the first post is directly related to buddhism; the other ones discuss topics that are often dealt with in buddhist practice and literature.

talking to your zen mind
the middle way, you’re soaking in it is a post we can find at traviseneix, describing the big mind process of genpo roshi.

the process really is as simple as asking to talk to a certain voice, and answering in the affirmative, naming yourself as that voice. to get an idea i highly recommend watching the youtube series which begins here.

this method is also very valuable for meditation. the simple process is to center yourself, like you would for zen sitting … then, in the role of facilitator, ask to talk to the non-seeking non-grasping mind, “may i please talk to the non-seeking non-grasping mind?” then, answer back as that mind, “yes, i am the non-seeking non-grasping mind.” then you simply sit as that non-dualistic mind for the duration of your meditation.

ego or soul? who’s driving?
tupelo kenyon says “even though i identify my sense of self with soul, there seems to be another “something” inside forever jockeying for position and making its presence known. this is the ego. what’s the difference? how can you know which one is in charge? what are their characteristics?”

since i prefer peace to mayhem and contentment to perpetual, blind striving, my goal is to keep soul in the driver’s seat as often as possible. instead of an either/or situation, i like the idea of soul and ego peacefully coexisting in a manner that best serves the greater good.

as always with tupelo’s posts, you can listen to instrumental music as you read plus songs with lyrics related to each article.

here are a few more posts that were submitted:

robert emmons on the positive psychology of gratitude
the importance of self-control for the yogi
forgive and move on
how we can find healing in nature

that concludes this edition. submit your blog article to the next edition of a buddhist carnival using our carnival submission form.past posts and future hosts can be found on our blog carnival index page.

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