Whatever we are about to do, as Buddhists, every thought we think, every action we take, and every word we speak must be grounded in a firm adherence to sound principles.
This must be clear: do not allow emotion to hold sway in one’s work — rather, let correctness hold sway. Correctness according to what? In matters of the Dhamma, correctness according to the principles of the Dhamma and Vinaya as laid down by the Lord Buddha; in worldly matters, correctness according to the established principles and standards of the relevant field.
We must not act from emotion toward anyone. The moment one allows emotion to govern one’s dealings with others, conflict will arise, and harm will follow — to oneself, to one’s family, and to Buddhism. This must be clear: let sound principles be the foundation, and never allow emotion to hold sway.
February 8th, 2015
