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Accepting Imperfection November 25, 2009

Posted by Philip Ryan in : Buddhism, Daily Dharma , trackback

Any time we want life to be different than it is, we are caught in impatience. We lose our sense of humor; and self-pity, despair, and blame seep into the heart. Gentle forbearance includes the spirit of forgiveness. When we feel conflict with others, understanding their suffering is the first step in being able to communicate, forgive, and begin again. The practice of forgiveness happens when we are able to realize the underlying cause of our anger and impatience, and this allows us to distinguish between someone’s unskillful behavior and essential goodness. Serenity and calm develop as we learn to accept imperfection in others and ourselves.

-Michele McDonald, “Finding Patience,” Tricycle, Summer 2004

Read the complete article on tricycle.com.

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Comments»

1. Seiun Hosei - November 25, 2009

Beautifuly said but if we accept everything as it is, where does the concept of “imperfect” come from? Gassho

2. JM - November 25, 2009

A message well worth repeating!
Thank you

3. AB - November 26, 2009

A message I needed to see today more than any other day.

4. DDR - November 26, 2009

perfect imperfection?

5. dan - November 27, 2009

Thank you so very much.

6. tenzin parkin - November 29, 2009

thank you i have been reciting the Wheel of sharp weapons for many days ncluding the manra of the wrathful Yamantaka Calling my instant karma down on my head…and then passing some tricky dark nights of the soul. int he HImalayas where I live it is cold and dark, and bone chillling. your message ws a beacon of light. metta tenzin tsultrim