Imagine you're on a journey to become a really kind and happy person. The Buddha, who was a wise teacher, gave us eight important steps to follow on this journey.
1. Right View: This means understanding what is right and what is wrong. For example, if you see someone being bullied at school, you should understand that it's wrong and try to help them. Also, it means that we try to understand why things happen. Why is the bully being unkind, what is happening in their life to cause this?
2. Right Intention: This is about having good thoughts and kind intentions. Like when you decide to share your desert with a friend because you want them to be happy too. Or when you see a wounded bird and want to help them.
3. Right Speech: It's important to speak kindly and truthfully. For instance, if you accidentally break something, you should be honest and tell the truth about it. Also, when angry, we should be careful about what we say to others. Cruel words can hurt people. Kind words will help them.
4. Right Action: This means doing good things and not hurting others. So, for example, you should help your parents at home and help friends when they have a problem. Kind actions are right actions. Anything we do that helps others and does not hurt them is right action.
5. Right Livelihood: This is about earning a living in a way that doesn't harm others. Like when grown-ups have jobs that help people, animals or the environment. If our job is hurting others, we should change what we do.
6. Right Effort: It's important to always try our best and not give up easily. Just like when you learned to ride a bike, you kept trying even if you fell down. In life, you will have the chance to develop many skills. Mistakes are natural, and help us learn. By making an effort, we grow and help others.
7. Right Concentration: This is like focusing your mind to do something well, like when you're practicing piano, reading a book, drawing a picture or playing a sport. When we concentrate well, our skills improve. If we don't concentrate well, we will have trouble growing and learning.
8. Right Mindfulness: This means being aware of your thoughts, feelings, and actions. Also, to be aware of where you are and what you are doing right now. For instance, when you're eating, pay attention to how the food tastes and how it makes you feel. Also, being aware of how beautiful nature is, and experiencing a deep connection with your heart. And being aware of other people in trouble, who need help.
These eight steps help us become better people, solve problems and find happiness in our lives.
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