Right Concentration in Western Society-Noble Eightfold Path 6

Hello to all,

The Noble Eightfold Path is a cornerstone of Buddhist teachings.

Right Concentration - Simply put it is staying in the moment, being deeply present in the now. Whether we are washing dishes, playing with our children, meditating, talking to someone, taking a walk, or doing any of the other thousands of things we do every day - Be There. 

There are two types of Concentration. Active concentration is being totally aware of the present moment. For a moment your anger Habit Energy surfaces. Recognize it, smile at it and let it pass. Active Concentration is a great tool for getting control of your Habit Energy.

Selective Concentration is focusing on one object. During meditaion we know other things are going on around us but we abandon them. The same can be done with many of life's duties. Being the cook most of the time at home I do lots of dishes. Staying in the moment I find doing them therapeutic by keeping focused on the hot water, porous sponge, and patterned ceramic dish. It makes the action pleasing, instead of a chore.

Developing higher degress of Right Concentration can increase the joy of life. You will begin to notice things that were long hidden. Instead of rushing through washing dishes as a chore, the glitter of the soap bubbles, swirl of water as it drains, the gleam of clean aluminum, ceramic and cast iron can bring a smile. Sounds corny, but in my experience it is true.

<>We can all practice Samadhi (concentration) by just being aware, being in the moment of each day. You will become the moment. You will touch the ultimate dimension.

To me Right Concentration has given me insight into my daily life I would never have achieved. Do I still need lots of practice? Oh yeah. In Western Society, from birth we are taught to look ahead and prepare for the future. Do it, but don't let it rule your thinking (Right Thinking just leapt in). Concentrate on it while doing it, then let it go. There is so much of life you will miss if you don't. 

Be active in each moment, be selective in each task.