By Victor M Fontane
"When someone benefits us even a little, we should repay them with all our hearts. Even if someone is angry with us, we should always treat them well."
~ Upasakasila Sutra
As Buddhists, we should feel fundamentally grateful for everything that happens to us.
This shows us that gratitude is also an antidote to greed. Greed often comes from a sense of not having enough, or at least not having as much as everyone else has. Gratitude assures us that what we have is enough; greed and gratitude cannot peacefully coexist, it seems. The same goes for jealousy, regret, resentment, and many other negative emotions. The sutra continues its discussion of gratitude by mentioning four other ways of being that can help us always stay grateful toward the world. It says:
When we see an evil person, we should become thoughtful and consider that their evil is a burden most of all to themselves. With this understanding we should treat them with as much compassion as possible.
When we see those who are suffering, we should not turn away from them. Instead we should provide them as much comfort as we are able.
When we are with our parents, our teachers or others who are of good nature, we should feel joy and respect. We should seek to build on the compassion they have shown us by creating even more positive conditions in the world.
When we come upon someone who is angry with us, we should not return the feeling. Instead we should look for every way we can think of to diminish it.
A Thanksgiving Prayer
“For all living beings, no matter who or what they are.
Whether they are seen or unseen, whether they are living near or far.
Whether they are born or unborn.
Let none deceive or despise anyone anywhere.
Let none wish harm to another, in anger or in hate.
May all beings be safe, peaceful, and happy”.
Comments