When I'm struggling to accept my body the way it is, I try to bring
to mind this quote from The Way of the Boddhisattva by Shantideva:
"Therefore, free from all attachment,
I will give this body for the benefit of beings;
Thus, though many blemishes afflict it,
I shall take it as my necessary tool." (Meditation, Stanza 184)
I also find this one helpful:
"Regard your body as a vessel,
A simple boat for going here and there.
Make of it a wish-fulfilling gem
To bring about the benefit of beings." (Vigilance, Stanza 70)
These quotes remind me that it's not how my body looks, but what I do with it, that matters most.
wow! amazing! It's one of the most inspiring reflection about body feeling I've ever heard of! it happens to me to think something similar when I practice some sport. During my daily life I forget how important is my body in sustaining me. I will look for Shantiveda on the web to learn more! Thank you very much!
ReplyDeleteOttilie