For those of you not in the know, I am beginning the process of dedicating my life to the Buddhist path. There’s a difference it seems in being a Buddhist and living as a Buddhist. Although I am not officially Buddhistical, I do live my life accordingly.
At my temple and at many others, the process is known as Precept-Taking. It is a process that begins with reflection, humility and prostrations. Lots of them. So in addition to living it, there are weekly meetings — one week, one precept. They are:
- Do not harm, but cherish all life.
- Do not take what is not given, but respect the things of others.
- Do not engage in sexual promiscuity, but practice purity of mind and self-restraint.
- Do not lie, but only speak the truth.
- Do not partake in the production and trading of firearms and chemical poisons.
- Do not waste, but conserve energy and natural resources.
- Do not harbor enmity against the wrongs of others, but promote peace and justice through non-violent means.
- Do not cling to things that belong to you, but practice generosity and the joy of sharing.