How Can We Harm Ourselves When We Act In Anger Towards Others?

Has acting out in anger ever made you feel powerful or courageous?

On Saturday, March 5, the Lotus Mornings Dharma study group gathered virtually to learn and discuss a Dharma teaching. We listened to the tale of the two-headed bird and how it reflected the impact of ill will in our lives. It was observed that ill will not only harm others around you but yourself as well and that often we regret things that are said in anger or actions that are taken due to spite.  

There were also discussions of how self-centredness promotes the wrong view that the world should serve our every need or want. This errant perspective seems to form the basis of ill will and, with its slow-release, we are free to explore a more beneficial attitude towards ourselves and the world around us. 

It seems like one moment of negativity can have many consequences. Instead, our group investigated the positive results of speaking good words, thinking good thoughts and acting in wise and beneficial ways. 

We also were happy to see new participants in the group, and their contributions were both helpful and constructive. This shows the cumulative benefit of group practice and discourse.  

By Martyn Knowles