The Mindful Life

Every lasting relationship thrives on two pillars: trust and hope. But for it to endure, they must be mutual, evolving, and always moving in a positive direction.

You owe yourself the same care you give to the world. It's not negotiable.

Being kind to yourself isn’t an option; it is a fundamental requirement. You must choose your own peace, always.

The Buddha and Ananda Sick monk

One day, Ananda and the Buddha arrived at a retreat center where only one monk remained. This monk was gravely ill with diarrhea and was in distress. Upon entering his room, the Buddha and Ananda were greeted by a foul smell. The Buddha asked the sick monk, “Has nobody cared for you?” The monk replied, “I have been unwell for a long time, and many monks have taken care of me. Yet, I do not want to burden them anymore. I can manage on my own now.” The Buddha gently corrected him, saying, “No, that is not how it should be.”

The Buddha then instructed Ananda, “Go and fetch a bucket of water and a rag.” The Buddha lovingly cleaned and washed the sick monk, while Ananda tidied the room. For three hours, they dedicated themselves to this act of compassion. Once finished, Ananda generously offered one of his three robes to the monk, washed the monk's robe, and hung it outside to dry. Later, the Buddha and Ananda sat outside, waiting for the return of the other monks.

When the other monks saw the Buddha and Ananda, they rejoiced at their presence. However, the Buddha conveyed a powerful message: “Dear friends, we are all away from our families. Our brothers, sisters, and parents cannot care for us. If we do not take care of one another, who will? If you wish to take care of the Buddha, you must care for your brothers. When you care for one another, you are also caring for me. And in caring for the Buddha, you are nurturing your brothers."

Things that are empty make a noise, the full is always quiet.
The fool is like a half-filled pot, the wise one is like a deep still pool.

Sutta Nipāta 3.726

Source: Gemstones of the Good Dhamma, compiled and translated by Ven. S. Dhammika