Today, I abide in the Eight Precepts
1) I undertake the precept to refrain from destroying living creatures.
The Past: This is a precept I have followed for years, even before finding The Path. Although, I have taken it more seriously and taken on vegetarianism. This means that, in a small way I'll admit, I am discouraging the taking of life by not endorsing it in my life.
Today: Today, thought, I will have to be more mindful of my steps for the sake of the smaller bugs, etc.
Makes me think: What about smaller things such as bacteria, etc? The way I see it thought, anything that doesn't want to die, I will be diligent not to do so. What about driving your car? Think about it, can you be mindful of being in a car?
2) I undertake the precept to refrain from taking that which is not given.
The Past: Though I have never been the "stealing type," I have to admit I have taken things that weren't mine before.
Today: Today I am reminded of how mindful I have to be when it comes to objects. For instance, I found a watch yesterday that someone had left on the court. They were from out of town, and probably won't get it back. But, it is was not given to me by them, so I cannot keep it.
Makes me think: A lot of the time I usually take food from my room mates. Sure, we usually share food, but today do I need to not eat my room mates's cereal because she hasn't directly given it to me? I'd say, yes. The idea: learn about giving.
3) I undertake the precept to refrain from sexual activity.
Past: I used to think that there was no benefit in having to give up sexual activities, because I used to think that they were always acts of love (as I make sure they are expressed in such a way). But, since finding The Path it can see how it can serve as a distraction, as well as an addiction.
Today: To be honest, I look forward to this day. I am more strongly on the addicted side of the pleasures of sexual activities. I don't like that I am so controlled by my desires in this area. I am a bit relieved to have a day where I am supposed to not engage in such activities- it helps me train in controlling my desire. Today, I will be diligent to not engage in these activities, and instead, focus on more wholesome (and important) activities like friendship, companionship, support, engaging in good conversation, laughing, maybe even playing, etc.
Makes me think: So, does kissing count? Well, yes and no. Kissing (a loving peck on the cheek) may be alright. But "making out" certainly is the doorway to other sexual activities.
4) I undertake the precept to refrain from incorrect speech.
Past: Yesterday I realized that I had told a white lie once, and that I had continued to tell it, even though it was harmless, over and over until I didn't realize I was telling it again and again. I am a very truthful person, but white lies are an area I can work on. Below you will see the 3rd part of right speech and the 5th part of right speech, which I have put special emphasis on, even before finding The Path.
Today: This precept is broken down into five parts. 1) speaking at the right time, 2) spoken in truth, 3) spoken affectionately, 4) spoken to someone's benefit, and 5) spoken with good will in mind. Today I will be working on all of them, but I need to put special emphasis on #2.
Makes me think: Can I tell a lie to keep someone from dying? This is how I see it: Imagine George is trying to kill Mike, and they ask you where Mike is. The right way to do this is to tell George that you aren't going to tell him where Mike is because of what he wants to do...and that's the truth. The wrong way to do this would be if you were to tell George that Mike was at In and Out Burger, when he wasn't...
5) I undertake the precept to refrain from intoxicating drinks and drugs which lead to carelessness.
The Past: In the past I have been drunk and careless, and I never liked it in the end. This is one of the reasons I always wanted to give up being drunk. But, also, in the past, I have just had a beer with a friend, which I see as not being harmful. The reason I chose, ultimately, to give up intoxicants is because even though I may be having just one beer with a friend, I have noticed that the loosening of the situation allowed me lose control of myself and take a shot...then another...then three. By saying No to begin with, I avoid my weakness and train myself.
Today: Today I don't do anything out of the ordinary. I don't take intoxicants on a regular basis now. But, today I can practice precept #2 and makes sure no one feels I am not trying to be anti-social by explaining my actions.
Makes me think: Once I gain control of myself to a point, do I get to drink a beer with my friend? I'd say no. It is not apparent that someone drink a beer with a friend. Why not tea, or water- they're all drinks?! There is attachment in this situation...water, beer, tea, they're all a drink to me. It's hanging out with friends that counts!
6) I undertake the precept to refrain from eating at the forbidden time (i.e., after noon).
Past: I have always been a BIG guy, I'm 230lbs right now! Food is, and has always been, my #1 addiction. And, on previous Uposatha Days, I have failed at this task.
Today: Today I learn what it means to go without so much food. I want to learn how to manage only having X amount of food in a day and going on happily. I also aim to accomplish this today!
7) I undertake the precept to refrain from dancing, singing, music, going to see entertainments, wearing garlands, using perfumes, and beautifying the body with cosmetics.
Past: I have never practiced this in the past. Generally, I don't see any of these things as harmful.
Today: But, now I see how distracting these things can be to being at peace with yourself. If I can't have any of these things, how will I feel about myself in public? I will learn to be okay with me when I don't have these things. How will I deal with boredom? Meditation, maybe a good discussion, a good read, etc. Finding happiness at any moment is the goal of The Path.
Makes me think: I have had problems with trying to dodge other people when they are playing music, etc...not worth it. Hearing music isn't the issue, I think. It's being distracted by it when you are bored from more wholesome activities.
8) I undertake the precept to refrain from lying on a high or luxurious sleeping place.
Past: This one is totally new to me. But, already, I have found the benefits. It's very humbling. One good side effect: I actually get up when I'm supposed to. Sure it's not the most comfortable, so when I wake up...I'm awake, not enveloped in a warm comforter and pillow-plush pillows.
Today: I went to sleep at 12 am last night on the floor. I slept just fine. I'll do it again tonight...
Makes me think: This should totally help support #3. Also, last night I slept on a sleeping bag, why? The two other nights I have done this I actually didn't get any sleep (think about the middle way). I kept waking up over and over- I still think it is good to get some okay sleep, so I added a small cushion under me. Would you sleep on the cement to follow this precept? I wouldn't...
-Today I am practicing these precepts- I aim to practice them regularly! For more info: http://www.accesstoinsight.org/ptf/dhamma/sila/atthasila.html
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