Buddhism and the act of commitment
Among the many things I like about Buddhism is how, many Buddhists celebrate today, Buddha Purnima – The day of Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and passing away (Parinirvana).
The lay Buddhist goes to the temple and takes a vow or reaffirms his vow of pañcasīla, 5 precepts
1. I will not take the life of a sentient being;
2. I will not take what has not been given to me;
3. I will refrain from sexual misconduct;
4. I will refrain from false speech;
5. I will refrain from becoming intoxicated.
These principles of non violence, not stealing, no sexual misconduct, speaking the truth and refraining from intoxication are a commitment to dharma. These are not just dos and don’ts that we dismiss as old fashioned or rebel against.
We see the value of each of them. We see the harm that is caused when we don’t follow them. We experience the courage and peace when we do follow these values. Only then we can really allow these principles to flow in our actions and our lives. Otherwise, we are on our best behavior only when people are watching.
Making a commitment (any commitment) is not an ordinary thing. Yes, there will be occasions where there will be doubt, there will be justification of convenience and pleasure. Still the ship, more or less stays the course. It may veer here and there but the commander of the ship is clear about the direction and the course of dharma.
Wouldn’t it be so beautiful and meaningful to COMMIT to allow dharma to flow into one’s life uninterrupted every day when you wake up in the morning?