CALM THROUGH MEDITATION

USUALLY we find it difficult to control our mind. If things go well our mind is happy, but if they go badly it immediately becomes unhappy. If we get what we want we become excited. On the other hand, if we do not get what we want, or if we lose something that we like, we become despondent or irritated.

Such fluctuations of mood arise because we are too closely involved in the external situation.

We are like a child making a sandcastle who is excited when it is first made, but becomes upset when it is destroyed by the incoming tide.

By training in meditation we create an inner space that enables us to control our mind regardless of the external circumstances. We develop mental equilibrium, a balanced mind that is happy all the time, rather than an unbalanced mind that oscillates between the extremes of excitement and despondency.

If our mind is peaceful we shall be free from worries and mental discomfort but if our mind is not peaceful we shall find it difficult to be happy even if we are surrounded by the very best conditions.

Odiyana Buddhist Centre is running six week courses on finding happiness though meditation. We have two courses one on Monday nights at The Old Police Station, Runcorn and one on Thursday nights at CRMZ Kingsway, Widnes.

The classes both start at 7.30pm run from August 30 up to and including October 6.

For further details contact: Odiyana Buddhist Centre The Heysoms 163 Chester Road Northwich CW8 4AG Julie Forrest Education programme co-ordinator