Have just started reading "Buddha's Brain," a great book that reaffirms the Buddha Way in scientific terms. May want to use it as a book class this fall. Anyway, one of the things the authors stress, as well as Buddha, by the way, is that we can change our minds. One way to do that is to focus on the Good. We will still encounter unpleasant things in our lives, but by pairing up those moments with a conscious thought of goodness can counteract the pain of that unpleasant moment. Moreover, by dwelling in the good moments a bit longer, not letting them slip away too fast, we can ingrain a bit more peace and joy in our brains and lives.
Yesterday was my day to volunteer at Hospice House. I bring my dog, Buster, with me to help break the ice and bring some liveliness and joy into the rooms I visit. We met a man yesterday that was worried because he was there in Hospice House, and his wife had been admitted to the hospital next door. He hadn't heard from her and didn't know how she was. After several phone calls I was able to determine that she had been discharged. I tried the home number, and gratefully she answered. The man was SO happy to be able to speak with her. I left feeling so happy--for HIM. I felt my action was minimal.What was important was he got happiness. Then I got some, too. Pretty nice. Like when I saw the picture of Jan Rose in Japan sitting with a beautiful Japanese meal in front of her. Her smile of joy warmed my heart--really. Her joy became mine, and I was joyful for her. This is Joy in the Dharma.
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