I’d heard there were trails in the woods next to my new apartment, but finding them wasn’t straightforward. When I first walked my dog, the paths were hard to follow, and I easily wandered off. The more defined trails had many branches, and I never knew where they led. What seemed like a simple walk could become quite confusing!
I started exploring the woods cautiously, taking short walks. Sometimes, I’d get lost and have to find my way back home. Now, after three months, I know the trails well. I always know where I am and where the different paths lead. What used to be confusing is now familiar, and I enjoy my walks more.
This experience is similar to my practice of Buddhism, which I’ve studied for over forty years. I started exploring Buddhism because I wanted to suffer less. Meditation seemed like a simple practice: just focus on breathing and be kind. However, Buddhism turned out to be complex, with many lists and teachings. Initially, it felt overwhelming to remember everything, and I either felt prideful for knowing so much or inadequate for not knowing enough.
As my practice deepened, I realized the simplicity of it all. Until then, I had overcomplicated things and missed what was right in front of me. Sometimes, we use Dharma teachings to intellectualize our practice instead of directly experiencing it.
Over time, it became clear what the path was and wasn’t. It’s like my early walks in the woods when I couldn’t distinguish trails from non-trails, compared to now, when the paths are obvious. All that knowledge can become a distraction and even a hindrance. The real essence of practice is simple: find peace within yourself. Let go of anything that hinders your peace, like anger or perfectionism. Embrace what brings you peace, like calm breathing or kindness.
In essence, practice returns to the basics: focus on your breath and be kind. It doesn’t have to be more complicated than that.