A Boat
A boat may float in the water, but if water enters the boat it will bring great catastrophe. Likewise, a man may live in the world, but if the toxins of the world enter into the mind of the man, he will become sick and miserable. Soon he will sink. Maintaining the path will keep the water out of the boat.
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KEEPING THE MIND AND BODY IN HARMONY
It is important to know that in order to achieve harmony, we must maintain a proper balance between mind and body. A healthy mind without a healthy body or a fit body without a fit mind are not conducive to finding tranquility. Much emphasis in our society is put on taking care of the body (jogging, health clubs, etc), but less emphasis is put on taking care of the mind. To achieve balance, we must develop the body and mind equally.
It is important to seek good physical health. A good diet and exercise is essential in helping the body find harmony. Not eating enough, eating too much, or eating the wrong things make us sluggish in body and spirit. Exercise is needed to keep the body toned, but do so only in moderation. Too much exercise taxes the body and fatigues the mind.
Taking care of the mind is often overlooked by many. In a society that is increasingly vain, the care of the mind is often overlooked. Meditation is useful in helping us to look deep within ourselves and at our actions, emotions, and problems. We should remember that concentrating on the issues of the mind at the expense of the care of the body is not healthful either.
Seek to keep a balance of mind and body. Eat healthy, exercise in moderation, keep the mind clear. Do not lean too much one way or the other. We remove conflict within ourselves and discover a harmony of body and mind when we follow the right actions.
From a talk 12-09-04 Orlando, FL
