Pain is certain, suffering is optional.
This is one of the main teachings of Buddhism, according to Tony Miller who gave us a fascinating look at this life-philosophy. Tony says, in his opinion, Buddhism isn't a religion since there is no diety and Buddhists do not pray to the Buddha. Tony explained that the Buddha was a prince, born in 400-500 BCE. His father tried to keep him from the spiritual life by giving him everything he could possibly desire. This did not satisfy him so he left home and spent six years living a life of deprivation, This did not satisfy him either. He realized that old age, sickness, and death would come to him and everyone he loved. He concluded that life’s pain is unavoidable, but suffering isn’t. He determined to live a middle road between luxury and deprivation and discovered four noble truths:
- Suffering: Life involves suffering. That’s the problem.
- The Cause of Suffering: Man’s attachment to things and ignorant ideas
- Attachment to material things
- The ignorant idea of permanence
- The ignorant idea of separateness from others and nature (The concept that “I am separate and apart.”)
- The End of Suffering: Get rid of attachment and ignorant ideas
- The Eightfold Path: How we get rid of those attachments and ideas
- Right view
- Right resolve
- Right speech
- Right conduct
- Right livelihood
- Right effort
- Right mindfulness
- Right samadhi (meditative absorption)
The third point, Right Speech is defined as, "Before you speak, let your words pass through three gates: Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it kind?,” which is very similar to the Rotary 4-Way Test.
Tony told us that the teachings of Buddha can help us deal with the challenges of everyday life.
Also at Monday's meeting, we welcomed new member Chad Hughes, Promotions and Operations Manager at the Allen County Fair; and welcomed returning member Dr. James O'Neill. It's great to have you both as part of the Lima Rotary Club!
