|
Why must we note this arising and ceasing process? It is to develop the right perception. That is the perception of impermanence. What normally arises in the ignorant being’s mind, is the perception of permanence, and it is firmly established and so has to be destroyed. But it is the wrong perception, arising out of ignorance. As you keep observing mindfully and calmly the arising and, in particular, the ceasing nature of your object, gradually this wrong perception begins to weaken and fade away, making way for the right perception of impermanence to arise, get developed, go into strength by making much of it and ultimately becomes complete.
This is why that by merely reading or listening that this right perception of impermanence does not get developed. Generally it is the perception of permanence that leads the way in one’s thoughts, view's discussions and decisions. This means that it is ignorance, and not wisdom that leads the way. This is a foremost cause for the arising of dukkha. As the perception of impermanence begins to develop, one will realise it in one’s own experiences in life. At that time, the perception of impermanence will lead the way in one’s thoughts, views, discussions and decisions. It means that wisdom is leading the way now. One can then be happy and contented from this realisation that wrong view is going down and right view is developing. A frequently asked question is what is the fruit of practicing meditation in one’s daily life and affairs? Is it the perception of permanence or impermanence that is leading the way in one’s daily life? If it is permanence you are in ignorance and dukkha will be its result. If it is impermanence, you are in wisdom and the cessation of dukkha will be its result. Here is the foremost and most invaluable fruit of this practice. This is no easy task. But the best of things don’t come easy. So strong and subtle is the perception of permanence that it is very difficult to set aside. Nevertheless, it must be set aside, and for this purpose this path must be developed.
|