The world of Tzu Chi March-April 2022 (Vol.140)

48 2022 • 04 * Extracted from the book “Infinite Teachings, Infinite Meanings”. Serene Reflection Question & Answer By Dharma Master Cheng Yen There are many contradictions between rationality and emotional connection. How shall we reconcile them? Which one should we choose if we cannot achieve both? Rationality and emotional connection should be balanced in our daily life. Buddhism teaches compassion and wisdom; neither should be neglected. If we must deem one more important, I consider emotional connection to be more critical. Interpersonal relationships support our advancement towards our goals in life. If we rely heavily on rationality and lack emotional connection, such a cold life will leave us with no motivation to progress. Therefore, the even balance of both is best, but if that is not possible, then it is better to have more emotional connection and less rationality. It is best that we balance compassion and wisdom, but if we must choose one, we should prioritize compassion because someone with a truly pure heart of love will derive wisdom from compassion. How can we obtain wisdom? We obtain wisdom by keeping our minds free from discursive thoughts, facing matters optimistically, and dealing with matters in a practical way. Train yourself every day. Do not fret over things you do not like to do, and do not become afflicted about the things you are not able to do. Contemplate instead the things you should do. Your thoughts should not be too complicated. Simplicity is wisdom. Recently, I feel myself becoming very emotional, dissatisfied by many things, and displeased with others. What can I do? Being overly emotional will gradually narrow our minds until there is no space left. We will then be beset by obstacles everywhere, and both ourselves and those around us will suffer. Therefore, we should practise broad-mindedness. Do not only focus on ‘me’. If your ‘I’ expands too much, there will be no space for anyone else. Furthermore, do not think that you are always right. If you do, then from other people’s perspective, you will always be wrong.