Tara the Liberator: How to Free Your Mind by Bhikshuni Thubten Chodron

Author:Bhikshuni Thubten Chodron
Language: eng
Format: azw3
Tags: Religion, Buddhism, Rituals & Practice, Tibetan, General
ISBN: 9781559393980
Publisher: Snow Lion Publications
Published: 2013-08-13T02:03:53+00:00

Whether we give a dollar or a million dollars isn't important. The important thing is that we want to support what is virtuous and feel joy in doing so. The mind takes delight in sharing what we have. We're not thinking in terms of numbers and "what is fair," but instead are happy to share. Such a wonderful attitude is the cause of happiness for ourselves and others.

Because many people don't have the mentality of generosity, then organizers, Dharma centers, or teachers find themselves in the position of charging fees for the Dharma because they need money to cover costs. But, let's say we re-educate our minds so that we take delight in helping the Dharma to exist and spread. Then, with a group of friends, we make a donation to cover the costs of an upcoming teaching. At that time, we might say to the organizers, "Let's make this teaching available for as many people as possible, free of charge." Then the organizers won't have to charge for Dharma events. Teachings in Asia are organized in this way, and the joy is infectious. Whenever I attend teachings there, I think of the kindness of the benefactors and dedicate for their well-being and enlightenment. Their generosity inspires me to practice.

Those in the position of a Dharma teacher must take care not to sell the Dharma. To me, this includes not teaching in order to earn their livelihood. If they do, teaching the Dharma becomes like a job, and of course, people want to be paid well for their work. Traditionally, Dharma teachers have not charged, because most of them were monastics. Monastics live simply; they don't need to support a family. They wear the same clothes every day, don't use jewelry or cosmetics, don't listen to music or go out for entertainment. The Buddhist community was grateful to have people keeping pure ethical discipline nearby and voluntarily gave them food, shelter, clothing, and medicine. Thus, the monastics were free to study, practice, and teach and didn't have to think about how to get their next meal.

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