5 Virtues

I think that learning, growing and sharing is an important part of our journey in life.  I had lunch with a friend recently who proclaims the practice Buddhism is important in her life.  As a former teacher (perhaps she never stopped!) and a well educated women, she shared with me the 5 virtues of Buddhism. 

1.            I undertake the training rule to abstain from taking life 

2.            I undertake the training rule to abstain from taking what is not given.

3.            I undertake the training rule to abstain from sexual misconduct.              

4.            I undertake the training rule to abstain from false speech.          

5.            I undertake the training rule to abstain from fermented drink that causes heedlessness.

I think that those 5 virtues are pretty self explanatory.  And in fact, in one form or another I bet we all have all been made aware of these “truths” in other texts, paths and doctrines. 

I don’t know that anyone could make a grounded argument that living these virtues would be bad or un-honorable for anyone to live. 

Yesterday we explored Namaste, a word derived also from Eastern Religion.  My point is not to convert anyone or state that whatever belief system you have is missing anything or wrong.  My point is that each of us has a journey that may lead to enlightenment.  That journey will be different for each person.  And if we can find the capacity, the space and the ability to honor that within others, we truly could create a better world in which to live.

We can be the change we seek in this world, and in ourselves.  One day.  One journey.  One person. One virtue at a time.

Royal D. Bush serves as Interfaith Chaplain.  He has studied at Andersonville Theological Seminary, and the International Institute of Faith Based Counseling.  He also holds a Bachelor Degree in business administration. He is available for premarital coaching, couples coaching, life coaching, and pastoral care in the Nebraska and Iowa area.

Inclusive Life offers both nondenominational and nonreligious care-serving all, without exception!  Inclusive Life offers Wedding Ministers, Premarital Coaching, Couples Coaching, Funeral Ministers, End of Life Planning, and Pastoral Care.

INCLUSIVE LIFE   (402) 575-7006   info@inclusivelife.org

In Omaha at 105 S. 49^th Street, Omaha, NE 68132

In Council Bluffs at 500 Willow Avenue, Council Bluffs, IA 51503