Navigating external stimuli with Pomnyun Sunim
In his book “Life Lessons,” Venerable Pomnyun Sunim explores the deep inquiry of how to handle external influences without giving in to suffering.
He refers to a conversation in Buddhist texts where the Buddha suggests three steps to follow when facing desires that arise from external situations.
Firstly, avoiding situations that may lead to stimuli, secondly, refraining from engaging further once in such situations, and lastly, maintaining inner peace regardless of the stimuli.
Pomnyun emphasizes the importance of awareness in dealing with feelings that arise from external stimuli, which can easily escalate into desires if not observed mindfully.
Through vipaśyanā meditation, practitioners are encouraged to observe their feelings closely without attachment, thus preventing feelings from transforming into cravings or aversions.
This practice of śīla, or Buddhist ethics, involves not suppressing desires but acknowledging and observing them with equanimity.
He stresses that genuine practice involves experiencing and learning from one’s mistakes rather than suppressing desires, which only leads to stress and unhappiness.
Pomnyun advocates for a balanced approach where practitioners cultivate awareness of their feelings and practice forbearance, not suppression, to maintain inner peace amidst external provocations.
Thus, by integrating śīla with mindful awareness, one can navigate external stimuli with wisdom and clarity, fostering a path towards genuine contentment and spiritual growth.
