I can't be good, Steve! I have a devilish side to my nature. Maybe if I keep practicing someday I'll be good!!
I just got back from a retreat in north Alabama hosted by some local Buddhist friends. It was really beautiful. How have you been?
I just wrote about Dukkha under the heading ‘Buddhism’ here on the forum. It could be more important then being ‘good’ as you mentioned here. Because of the idea of suffering we hope for absence of self (anatta)— which constitutes the “right knowledge.” What I have noticed in spiritual instruction from Masters over the yrs. is that the concepts of good and bad are often limiting and often spiritual discipline is implemented by its effectiveness rather then its kindness.
I miss meditation sessions with Buddhists i at one time had while living in a larger city. Would be interested in what you experienced with your friends. I seem to be working out some desires associated with the playing and performance of music presently. However i communicate here to reinforce my practice of meditation and hopefully influence others in that practice.
