Friday, March 11, 2011

listening


Of all the different names for Avalokiteśvara, the meaning remains the same, "one who perceives the world's lamentations."

I have a feeling there is a lot more to being a Bodhisattva of Compassion than having good ears, but there must be something to it.

Personally, I find myself getting annoyed pretty quickly listening to all the "petty" grievances of those around me. This is just me thinking my grievances are (mostly) more important than anyone else's but Avalokiteśvara doesn't judge or calculate. The Bodhisattva listens to all. No one deserves to lament or be listened to more or less than the other.

I'll try to open my ears a little wider and maybe shut my mouth in the processes!

1 comment:

  1. I've often thought that the bodhisattva might best turn her many ears inwardly, to the chatter, grievances, and fantasies that I spin out, non-stop.

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