Every now and then, I find my practice in a bit of a slump. These last two weeks or so, I've been experiencing one such "Slump-attacks!". Now I'm sure many of you know exactly what I'm talking about. You stare at that shelf of Dharma books that you know you need to read but feel immediately overwhelmed by the store of knowledge you've yet to absorb. And when you think of all the unfinished Dharma projects scattered around the house, pleading with you for closure, you just want to crawl into bed. And don't even get me started on my neglected meditation practice. I've had the cold all week and every second day, the best I could do was squeeze in a 10min breathing meditation, before reciting my morning prayers.
So what to do? Well last Wednesday, the first issue of my Shambala Magazine subscription arrived. For some reason, those short articles seemed far easier to tackle than my neglected Dharma books and before I knew it, I was devouring article after article. It soon became apparent that my Bodhicitta heart was thirsty and starved of nourishment. And with each article, I was reminded of why I practice the Dharma. Buddhism nurtures my mind, in much the same way that good food nourishes my body. When my Dharma practice is neglected or stretched thin, I run dangerously low on the resources that I need to stay sane and present.
I remember when I attended a teaching by Venerable Robina. I was astounded by how enthused I became after her teaching. There's something about being in the presence of a well-studied teacher. They reflect our Buddha Nature back to us and remind us of our own potential. It's so easy to lose ourselves in our ordinary, limited conceptions of self. But this is not who we are! We are meant to become Buddhas and nothing satisfies us more than continuing on that journey to Buddhahood. I know however that our Teachers can't do all the work for us. Just like parents, they can only point us in the right direction but it is up to us to make those brave steps on the road to Enlightenment.
So last night, I made the effort to join the class 'Beyond Discovering Buddhism' at Langri Tangpa Centre. Being amongst other students & teachers is so important for my practice. For me, it's not about finding people who affirm your beliefs or validate your sense of 'being a Buddhist'. In fact, classes often challenge my understanding of Buddhist philosophy and practice and helps me to review what I'm doing. Is my understanding of the Dharma correct? Are there points of views or ideas that I've not considered or overlooked? Being able to talk my ideas out with others often encourages me back to studying Dharma books or befriending my meditation cushion because I'm keen to reap its benefits.
Maybe you're going through a slump of your own. If so, don't lose heart. Just recognise it as a sign that it's time to tend the garden of your mind. Those neglected Bodhicitta seeds are calling out to you for watering, fertilising and weeding. Pick up that magazine article and start reading, even if it's just a page or two. Don't be shy - reconnect with your local Dharma community. Go to that weekend teaching about that juicy topic you've always wanted to know about. Re-read an old favourite and inspiring Dharma book.
I wish all you Bodhisattva Gardeners every success in your endeavours because the world is in desperate need of more Bodhicitta flowers.
Yours truly,
Demi.
