December 21, 2023
Venerable Wuling in Anger, Awakening, Habits, Wandering thoughts

How can anger be real when in an instant

— “Poof”—it’s gone.

Living in a residential area, I found the oversized truck parked periodically in the guest parking area to be seriously annoying. That’s against the rules! Not a business area! Plus, it sticks out into the driveway!

Then one day, walking to my building, I heard a “Hello there!” It came from the smiling man approaching me from the next building.

“Can I help you with that box?” I declined his thoughtful offer, but we got to talking. A friendly conversation on a pleasant sunny day.

Then he said it: “That’s my truck.” 

My expression must have reflected my feelings for the looming vehicle, because he quickly added, “I don’t know where else to park it when I visit!”

He was sincerely distressed. And poof, my anger was gone. That quickly! That’s how insubstantial it had been. And how quickly we can change our thoughts when we understand a situation and quit spinning silly tales based on preconceived, erroneous opinions.

Now . . . what else can I poof into oblivion?

Article originally appeared on a buddhist perspective (http://www.abuddhistperspective.org/).
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