Buddha-Basics (Part VIII) — Working Right

http://static.howstuffworks.com/gif/...vities-100.jpgThe fifth branch of the ‘Eightfold Path’ is “Right Livelihood.” Right Livelihood means that, as a life choice, one should earn a living in ways not harmful, and helpful and healthful to the world.

Nurse, social worker, and teacher seem obvious choices. In our interconnected economy, so too do bus driver, honest salesman, cheerful office worker, waitress supporting her kids, the engineer or businessman providing goods or services which benefit lives.

Certainly, burgler, heroin pusher, hitman and environmental polluter fall outside the mark.
And for all of us in careers of complexity — the lawyer, soldier, butcher (traditionally, said banned by Buddha), nuclear scientist — we must honestly follow our hearts: Are we doing what is really necessary? Are we doing it in the best ways we can? Are we leaving this world a better place?

The workplace (like the home, like every place) is our place of Practice …

CLICK HERE for today’s Sit-A-Long video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4lZS...layer_embedded

Remember: recording ends soon after the beginning bells; a sitting time of 20 to 35 minutes is recommended.