conviction in the long-term benefits. Perseverance reduces our lazy tendency of giving up,
especially when we are working for the higher purpose of concern for others. What higher purpose
could there be than working for the welfare of others? There are two kinds of benefits. There is the
benefit that comes to the other and the benefit that comes to us. We feel relaxed and happy,
gaining a new sense of meaning in our lives. This brings more fulfillment, satisfaction and
contentment. Money cannot buy these things. When I persevere in the face of obstacles and finally
complete the wholesome task at hand, I feel very satisfied, regardless of the outcome. There is a
sense of achievement and long-term meaning. Doing wholesome things makes me feel wholesome
and good inside.
Concentration
In order to practice generosity, forgiveness, patience and perseverance successfully, we need a
focused, non-distracted mind. Focused attention or concentration breaks the habit of distraction.
Additionally it brings more clarity and brightness to the mind. It interrupts rumination. It interrupts
multi-tasking. It interrupts that incessant internal chatter, thereby allowing us to channel our
energies in a healthy direction. In this way, the mind and heart become more stable and clear.
Thus, the mind and heart become more powerful like a laser. In this way, utilizing this laser-like
mind, decisions become clearer and more effective. The mind gains a wider perspective through
concentration. Potential distractions are shut out. The situation at hand becomes crystal clear as
there are no distractions to cloud the mind. Hence, the mind is more relaxed. We become calmer,
as there is less clutter. The mind no longer jumps around like a monkey. This creates a
spaciousness and openness in the mind and heart. Within this open space, there is distance from
unwanted thoughts and emotions. We are more able to separate from these thoughts and
emotions. Thus, we have more freedom of choice to engage or not engage with these thoughts
and emotions. The mind and heart can investigate multiple scenarios efficiently, moving smoothly
and with ease. Thus, decision-making has more breadth and more effectiveness powered by
efficiency. When my mind is concentrated, I feel very alert and relaxed and am able to see things
from a broad perspective. Making decisions becomes easy. There is no anxiety or fear. I seem to
have greater vision. I feel more at peace. There is balance between alertness and relaxation.
The cultivation of concentration is a process [see
. I have not achieved the full degree of
concentration, yet when my mind is concentrated, I feel totally absorbed. Time is absent. When I
arise from a concentrated, meditation I am surprised by how much time has passed. It seemed like
five minutes, yet the clock says one hour. My body feels very light and I feel as if I do not need to
sleep. Of course, later I get tired and sleep. My sleep is deep and undisturbed. There is a feeling of
peace and deep relaxation. When I remember the Buddhist wisdom, my mind goes deeper.
Alternate methods of cultivating compassion like generosity, forgiveness, patience and
concentration become powerful tools even when we are practicing compassion directly. They
moisten the heart and reduce our pride, anger, jealousy and selfishness. Many avenues lead to
the same result. Walking them all strengthens our altruism and makes us happier.
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