As we shift from a self-centered view to a dharma-centered view, we enter the authentic truth of our experience, and see with new eyes, even when facing difficult mind states. What can support this turning?
Tonight we return to the fundamental meaning of sati as indicating memory, and look at the relationship of memory to wisdom. Our connection with the past allows us to learn from the patterns of experience as they flow over time. Mindfulness allows access to an experienced present that includes everything we have learned through the course of our lives.
The Buddha has a number of terms that express intention, choice, decision, determination, resolution. Here we look at cetanā, usually translated as “intention,” but perhaps better translated as “choice.” We examine the role of our choices, both habitual and conscious, in our practice and how we might learn to become sensitive to their workings.
