Idle Speech and the Role of Inner Silence in Awakening

Idle speech appears at the end of Right Speech. To the uninformed observer, mentioning pointless conversations can seem like a throwaway category, an insignificant one at that and only tagged on for good measure. That would be a grave misunderstanding. What we allow...

Using Space as a Strategy in Daily Life

In the Simile of the Saw, MN21, the Buddha shows us how a boundless mind makes it impossible for critical remarks to land anywhere and gain traction. We train to be able to modulate our awareness. We narrow our awareness when that serves us and expand the mind when...

Praise and Criticism

The Buddha provides guidance on how and when to confront a person about problematic or self-destructive behavior. He also recommends praising those who are deserving of praise.