On the surface Lessons of the Lotus is not a complicated book. It deals in a straightforward manner with several important topics. The profundity is grasping these ideas and applying them.
The lotus grows from a muddy layer below water and the flower blossoms beautifully at the surface. So there already is a lesson: Wonders can come from unexpected even hidden places. This is no less true for us than objects.
The author is a Sri Lankan Buddhist Monk, Bhante Y. Wimala who in his early 20's decided to become a traveling Monk instead of pursuing a more in depth study in a monastery. He is the man who first taught me meditation about 25 years ago and apparently wrote this book shortly after I had met him. When I first saw him at the retreat center, I was impressed with his demeanor: he projected peace and calm with a groundedness. And these features are reflected in his book.
He forgoes a more scholarly, detailed look at Buddhist teachings and philosophy in order to stress a more practical approach to overcoming suffering and finding happiness.
He speaks of our inner essence as a part of us that transcends our conscious self. And we can access it by recognizing our connection to nature and others. Introspection, honesty, curiosity help in the journey. The practice of loving-kindness to all living beings goes a long way to end suffering. Of course it is difficult to love people who are harsh or even evil. He gives advice on approaching such people without ignoring their negative aspects or being victim to them. And he shares the story of the Buddha converting a mass murderer through loving kindness into a conscientious loving Monk.
Meditation is a key element. He describes it easily and points to it's usefulness in calming the mind and helping us get beyond the everyday chatter of existence and see life more transcendent. Living in the present moment is important.
He also looks at Karma. Karma is not getting what we deserve but more the consequence of our actions be they positive or negative. And this can and does happen in the current moment even if a Buddhist view is also it can play out over several lifetimes.
What a pleasure to discover Bhante Wilmala's book. While I haven't seen him since he taught me meditation, I have maintained a respect and gratitude for him. And now I have more thanks for his straightforward and profound guide to living and transcending suffering.
---the Bishop
Bhante Wilmala
The lotus grows from a muddy layer below water and the flower blossoms beautifully at the surface. So there already is a lesson: Wonders can come from unexpected even hidden places. This is no less true for us than objects.
The author is a Sri Lankan Buddhist Monk, Bhante Y. Wimala who in his early 20's decided to become a traveling Monk instead of pursuing a more in depth study in a monastery. He is the man who first taught me meditation about 25 years ago and apparently wrote this book shortly after I had met him. When I first saw him at the retreat center, I was impressed with his demeanor: he projected peace and calm with a groundedness. And these features are reflected in his book.
He forgoes a more scholarly, detailed look at Buddhist teachings and philosophy in order to stress a more practical approach to overcoming suffering and finding happiness.
He speaks of our inner essence as a part of us that transcends our conscious self. And we can access it by recognizing our connection to nature and others. Introspection, honesty, curiosity help in the journey. The practice of loving-kindness to all living beings goes a long way to end suffering. Of course it is difficult to love people who are harsh or even evil. He gives advice on approaching such people without ignoring their negative aspects or being victim to them. And he shares the story of the Buddha converting a mass murderer through loving kindness into a conscientious loving Monk.
Meditation is a key element. He describes it easily and points to it's usefulness in calming the mind and helping us get beyond the everyday chatter of existence and see life more transcendent. Living in the present moment is important.
He also looks at Karma. Karma is not getting what we deserve but more the consequence of our actions be they positive or negative. And this can and does happen in the current moment even if a Buddhist view is also it can play out over several lifetimes.
What a pleasure to discover Bhante Wilmala's book. While I haven't seen him since he taught me meditation, I have maintained a respect and gratitude for him. And now I have more thanks for his straightforward and profound guide to living and transcending suffering.
---the Bishop
Bhante Wilmala
