2021-05-17

Raven 172: What the Practice Teaches

We live in forgetfulness of what we know. Sati is a central teaching in Buddhism. This Pali word is typically translated into English as "mindfulness." While "present-moment mindfulness" is a key practice, sati also means remembering. ("Mindfulness" also has this meaning, as, for example, when we say "be mindful of the slippery steps." We're saying "remember that the steps are slippery," combined with "exercise present-moment care when you get to the steps.")

We live in forgetfulness of what we know. Practice tends to orient us toward more often living in remembrance of what we know. Like the fact that you're dying. Or the cup there on the table.

Case
Gray Wold dropped by again and asked, "What can the practice teach me?"
Raven said, "Whay you already know."
Gray Wolf asked, "What do I already know?"
Raven said, "You're dying."
Gray Wolf said, "I try not to think about it."
Raven said, "Not thinking about it is OK." Gray Wolf said, "But there it is."
Raven said, "There it is."
After a short silence, Woodpecker asked, "Isnt' there a moment of understanding that seems to change everything?"
Raven said, "Day to night."
Woodpecker asked, "What does that moment teach me?"
Raven said, "The Assembly Oak."
Woodpecker said, "But I knew about that before."
Raven said, "Like I said."

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