Dhamma USA : 2023

Ānapānasati Bhāvanā (Meditation on Mindfulness of Breathing)

Anapanasati Bhavana, or mindfulness of breathing, is a profound practice taught by the Buddha. It's a method that brings us closer to understanding the nature of our mind and the path to liberation.

The practice of Anapanasati begins with the simple act of observing the breath. As we sit in meditation, we focus our attention on the natural rhythm of inhalation and exhalation. The breath becomes our anchor, a point of concentration that allows us to develop mindfulness.

In the initial stages, we become aware of the breath entering and leaving the body. We notice its qualities - whether it's long or short, deep or shallow, smooth or erratic. This attentiveness to the breath cultivates a heightened sense of awareness and presence in the moment.

Anapanasati is not merely about breathing; it's about cultivating mindfulness in every aspect of our experience. As we progress in this practice, we start to observe the impermanent nature of the breath and, by extension, the impermanence of all phenomena. We learn to let go of attachments, understanding that everything is in a constant state of flux.

The next phase involves calming the breath and the mind. As we breathe in and out, we allow ourselves to relax, to let go of the mental chatter and distractions. This tranquil state helps us develop a deep sense of inner peace and clarity.

Through continued practice, Anapanasati leads us to deeper insights. We start to observe the interconnectedness of body and mind. We notice how our thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations are intertwined with the breath. This realization fosters a profound understanding of the mind-body relationship and how it influences our experiences.

As mindfulness strengthens, we move towards the exploration of the mind itself. We observe the arising and passing away of thoughts, feelings, and mental states without getting entangled in them. This detachment allows us to break free from habitual patterns, reducing suffering caused by attachment and aversion.

Ultimately, Anapanasati Bhavana leads us to the development of wisdom and insight. By observing the impermanent, unsatisfactory, and selfless nature of all phenomena, we gain a deeper understanding of reality as it is. This wisdom paves the way to liberation from suffering - the ultimate goal of the Buddha's teachings.

In our daily lives, the practice of Anapanasati Bhavana is not confined to formal meditation sessions. We can apply mindfulness of breathing in every moment - while walking, working, or interacting with others. It becomes a way of living, a constant reminder to be present, aware, and compassionate in all circumstances.

May the practice of Anapanasati Bhavana guide us towards inner peace, wisdom, and liberation from suffering. As we continue on this path, may we cultivate mindfulness and compassion not only for ourselves but for all beings.

Remember, the breath is always available to us as an anchor in the present moment. Let's embrace it with gratitude and dedication on our journey towards awakening.

Wealth according to Buddhism

In Buddhism, wealth is perceived through a different lens than in many other philosophies or cultures. Unlike conventional ideas of material abundance, wealth in Buddhism revolves around a different set of principles.

Imagine wealth not just in terms of possessions or material affluence, but rather as an internal state of being. Buddhism teaches us that true wealth lies in contentment, simplicity, and the freedom from excessive desires. The Buddha himself spoke extensively about wealth, emphasizing the importance of inner richness over external accumulation.

According to Buddhist teachings, real wealth is found in the treasure of a peaceful mind. It's about cultivating inner qualities like compassion, wisdom, and generosity. The richness of one's heart, the depth of understanding, and the ability to empathize with others constitute genuine wealth in Buddhism.

The Buddha highlighted that the pursuit of material wealth, while necessary to meet basic needs, should not be the sole focus of our lives. Instead, he encouraged a balanced approach—a middle way—wherein we fulfill our responsibilities and pursue our goals without becoming enslaved by the pursuit of wealth.

Generosity is another cornerstone of wealth according to Buddhism. Giving, without attachment or expectation, is considered a path to true abundance. By sharing our resources, time, and kindness with others, we cultivate a sense of richness that transcends material possessions.

In essence, Buddhism invites us to reconsider our definition of wealth. It urges us to seek contentment within ourselves, to cultivate qualities that bring genuine happiness and peace. True wealth in Buddhism is not measured by what we own, but by the depth of our inner fulfillment and our ability to positively impact the lives of others.

Brahmavihāra Practice: 4 Sublime States

The Four Brahmaviharas, or Divine Abodes, are foundational teachings in Buddhism, encompassing loving-kindness (Metta), compassion (Karuna), empathetic joy (Mudita), and equanimity (Upekkha). These states of mind are considered sublime because they represent the ideal conduct toward all living beings, resolving social tensions and promoting harmony in communities. They dismantle barriers, revive generosity, and foster unity against egotism.

Their divine nature is likened to Brahma, a deity devoid of hate, contrasting with other deities often depicted with anger or jealousy. Practicing these states aligns one with Brahma, potentially leading to rebirth in congenial realms. They are called "abodes" as they should become constant mental dwellings, ingrained in everyday life.

The Brahmaviharas are boundless, extending universally without discrimination. To achieve this boundless application, meditation—Brahma-vihara-bhavana—is essential. Meditative absorption (jhana) aids in developing these qualities deeply within and expanding their application limitlessly. Gradually, meditative practices dismantle barriers to their application, guiding practitioners from easier (e.g., directing loving-kindness towards respected individuals) to more challenging (e.g., extending it to enemies) scenarios.

Spatial expansion involves starting with familiar environments and progressively extending these qualities to encompass broader spheres—from family to the entire world. Compassion, sympathetic joy, and equanimity follow similar practices, with variations in the selection of individuals.

Attaining Brahmavihara-jhanas aims to prepare the mind for liberating insight into the impermanent, suffering, and insubstantial nature of phenomena. These states pave the way for a purified, tranquil mind capable of insight.

Two methods—practical conduct and methodical meditation—complement each other. Meditation enhances the spontaneity of these qualities, while practical application diminishes resentment and tension, aiding meditation. Bridging the gap between daily life and meditative practice fosters steady progress.

Repeated reflection on the qualities, benefits, and dangers of their opposites aids in their meditative development. The mind inclines towards what is consistently contemplated, emphasizing the importance of persistent reflection on these virtues.

The Brahmaviharas serve as guiding principles, offering a path to cultivate a harmonious and compassionate way of living, ultimately contributing to personal well-being and creating a more peaceful world.

4 Sublime States/Abodes (Brahmavihara)

The Brahmaviharas, also known as the Four Divine Abodes or Sublime States, are a cornerstone of Buddhist teachings, emphasizing virtues and practices that cultivate a wholesome way of being in the world. These four qualities—loving-kindness (Metta), compassion (Karuna), empathetic joy (Mudita), and equanimity (Upekkha)—are considered sublime attitudes that bring about profound transformation within individuals and in their interactions with others.

Mettā - Loving Kindness

Loving-kindness, or Metta, is the foundational practice among the Brahmaviharas. It involves the boundless wish for the happiness, well-being, and peace of oneself and all beings. Metta encourages the cultivation of a compassionate and open heart, fostering a sense of interconnectedness and goodwill towards oneself and others. By practicing Metta meditation, individuals aim to dissolve barriers of prejudice and hostility, nurturing a deep sense of empathy and care for all sentient beings.

Karuṇā - Compassion

Compassion, or Karuna, is the empathetic response to the suffering of others. It involves the recognition of pain, distress, or anguish experienced by oneself or others, accompanied by the sincere desire to alleviate this suffering. Karuna arises from a profound understanding that suffering is an inherent part of the human condition and extends the wish to help alleviate that suffering in any way possible. It encourages acts of kindness, support, and understanding toward oneself and all beings, fostering a more compassionate world.

Muditā - Empathetic/Sympathetic Joy

Empathetic joy, or Mudita, celebrates the happiness, success, and well-being of others. It is the ability to genuinely rejoice in the accomplishments, good fortune, and positive experiences of oneself and others without envy or resentment. Mudita arises from a selfless and generous mindset, allowing individuals to transcend feelings of jealousy or competition and instead share in the joy and happiness of those around them.

Upekkhā - Equanimity

Equanimity, or Upekkha, is a balanced and even-minded state of mind in the face of life's ups and downs. It involves maintaining mental calmness, stability, and tranquility regardless of external circumstances. Upekkha does not imply indifference; rather, it embodies a deep understanding of the impermanent nature of existence. It allows individuals to respond to situations with clarity and wisdom, free from attachment and aversion, fostering a sense of inner peace and harmony.

The cultivation of the Brahmaviharas is not merely an intellectual exercise but a way of life that requires practice, mindfulness, and dedication. Through meditation, reflection, and conscious effort, individuals can gradually develop these sublime qualities, transforming their attitudes and behaviors toward themselves and others.

In summary, the Brahmaviharas—loving-kindness, compassion, empathetic joy, and equanimity—are guiding principles that encourage individuals to cultivate a more compassionate, empathetic, and harmonious way of living. By embodying these virtues, individuals can contribute positively to their own well-being and to the well-being of the world around them, fostering a more peaceful and compassionate society.

MN 20: Vitakkasanthana Sutta:

The Relaxation of Thoughts

The Vitakkasanthana Sutta, as spoken by the Blessed One at Savatthi in Jeta's Grove, Anathapindika's monastery, outlines five methods to address and manage unwholesome thoughts. Here are the highlighted methods along with corresponding similes:

Shifting Attention to Skillful Themes: If unskillful thoughts arise while focusing on a particular theme, the monk redirects attention to a skillful theme. This method is likened to a skilled carpenter using a small peg to dislodge a larger one.

Scrutinizing Drawbacks of Unwholesome Thoughts: When unskillful thoughts persist, the monk examines their drawbacks, acknowledging their unskillfulness, blame, and stressful nature. This method is likened to a person being horrified by an unsuitable adornment like a carcass hanging around their neck.

Paying No Mind to Unwholesome Thoughts: If unskillful thoughts continue, the monk disregards them entirely. This method is compared to someone consciously averting their eyes from undesirable sights.

Relaxing Thought-Fabrication: If unskillful thoughts persist, the monk attends to the relaxation of thought-fabrication regarding those thoughts. This process is compared to a person adjusting their physical posture from grosser to more refined positions.

Beating Down Unwholesome Thoughts: If unskillful thoughts still arise, the monk intensely and actively suppresses and restrains them with firm determination. This method is likened to a strong individual dominating and subduing a weaker person in a conflict.

The sutta emphasizes that a monk who masters these methods gains control over thought sequences, enabling the ability to think or not think specific thoughts at will. This mastery leads to the severance of craving, liberation from fetters, and the cessation of suffering and stress.

Children’s Program at Nevada Buddhist Vihara:

(Part 7)

September 17, 2023

By Bhante Sumitta (PhD)

(Part 1)

Inspiring Young Minds:

Bhante Sumitta's Motivational Program

@Nevada Buddhist Vihara

Published on September 18, 2023

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Part 6 of the Material

Buddhist teaching on how to cope with procrastination:

Today, I would like to share with you the profound teachings from Buddhism on how to cope with procrastination. Procrastination is a common struggle for many of us, and the wisdom found in Buddhist philosophy can offer valuable insights and guidance on how to overcome this habit.

In Buddhism, there are several key principles and practices that can help us address procrastination:

Mindfulness:

Central to Buddhist teachings is the concept of mindfulness. Mindfulness involves being fully present in the moment, without judgment. When we procrastinate, we often become preoccupied with worries about the future or regrets about the past. By practicing mindfulness, we learn to focus on the task at hand, reducing the temptation to delay.

Awareness of Impermanence:

Buddhism teaches us about the impermanence of all things, including time. Procrastination often stems from the illusion that we have an endless amount of time to complete our tasks. By recognizing the fleeting nature of time and life itself, we are motivated to make the most of the present moment and take action promptly.

Right Intention (Samma Sankappa):

One of the components of the Noble Eightfold Path, right intention emphasizes the importance of setting wholesome and skillful intentions. When faced with procrastination, we can ask ourselves whether our intentions align with our long-term goals and values. Developing a clear and positive intention can inspire us to overcome procrastination.

Effort (Samma Vayama):

Effort is another element of the Noble Eightfold Path. It encourages us to put forth diligent and consistent effort in our endeavors. Overcoming procrastination requires us to commit to our tasks and persistently work on them, regardless of any distractions or obstacles.

Compassion:

Buddhism teaches us to cultivate compassion, not only for others but also for ourselves. Procrastination often leads to self-criticism and negative self-talk. By practicing self-compassion, we can be more forgiving of our shortcomings and use positive reinforcement to motivate ourselves to take action.

Non-Attachment:

The Buddhist concept of non-attachment reminds us that our suffering often arises from clinging to desires and outcomes. When we procrastinate, we may be attached to the idea of perfection or fear failure. Letting go of these attachments can free us from the paralysis of procrastination and allow us to approach our tasks with a more relaxed mindset.

Meditation:

Regular meditation practice is a fundamental aspect of Buddhism. Meditation can help us develop greater mental clarity, focus, and discipline. These qualities are essential for overcoming procrastination as they enable us to stay on track and resist distractions.

In conclusion, the teachings of Buddhism offer valuable guidance on how to cope with procrastination. By practicing mindfulness, embracing impermanence, setting right intentions, putting forth effort, cultivating compassion, practicing non-attachment, and incorporating meditation into our lives, we can gradually overcome the habit of procrastination. Remember that change takes time and patience, but with dedication to these principles, we can lead more mindful, purposeful, and productive lives. Thank you.

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Children’s Program at Nevada Buddhist Vihara:

(Part 6)

September 17, 2023

By Bhante Sumitta (PhD)

(Part 1)

Inspiring Young Minds:

Bhante Sumitta's Motivational Program

@Nevada Buddhist Vihara

Published on September 18, 2023

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Part 6 of the Material

Sleeping early and waking early can have numerous benefits for both physical and mental well-being. Here are five advantages:

Improved Physical Health:

Reduced Risk of Health Issues:

Going to bed early and waking up early supports a consistent sleep schedule, which can reduce the risk of sleep-related health problems such as insomnia, sleep apnea, and obesity.

Better Weight Management:

Adequate sleep and an early morning start can help regulate appetite hormones, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight.

Enhanced Mental Well-being:

Improved Mood:

A well-rested mind is often a happier one. Waking up early can set a positive tone for the day and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.

Increased Productivity:

Morning hours are often the most productive. By waking up early, you can tackle important tasks with a fresh mind and fewer distractions.

Established Routine:

Consistency:

Going to bed and waking up at the same time daily helps regulate your body's internal clock, leading to better sleep quality and overall health.

Time for Personal Growth:

Early mornings provide uninterrupted time for self-improvement activities such as reading, meditation, or exercise.

Quality Time:

More Time with Loved Ones:

Waking up early can allow for quality time with family members before the day's responsibilities kick in, fostering stronger relationships.

Enjoy Quiet Moments:

Early mornings are typically quieter, providing a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and solitude.

Increased Exposure to Natural Light:

Better Exposure to Sunlight:

Waking up early ensures exposure to natural sunlight, which can help regulate the body's circadian rhythm and improve mood and alertness.

Vitamin D Production:

Morning sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D, essential for bone health and overall well-being.

Overall, developing a habit of sleeping early and waking early can lead to a healthier and more fulfilling life by promoting physical health, mental well-being, and a sense of routine and accomplishment.

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Children’s Program at Nevada Buddhist Vihara:

(Part 5)

September 17, 2023

By Bhante Sumitta (PhD)

(Part 1)

Inspiring Young Minds:

Bhante Sumitta's Motivational Program

@Nevada Buddhist Vihara

Published on September 18, 2023

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Part 5 of the Material

Five morning activities for children to do to start their day right:

Wake Up Early:
Encourage them to wake up at the same time every day to establish a healthy routine. Waking up early gives them extra time to prepare for the day and reduces the rush.

Hydrate:

The first thing they should do after waking up is drink a glass of water. Explain to them that their body gets dehydrated during sleep, and water helps wake up their systems and stay refreshed.

Morning Stretch:

Teach them some simple stretching exercises to loosen their muscles and get their blood flowing. This can be as basic as reaching for the sky or touching their toes.

Healthy Breakfast:

Stress the importance of eating a nutritious breakfast. A balanced meal in the morning provides energy for the day and helps them concentrate better at school.

Plan the Day:

Sit down with them and create a to-do list for the day. Prioritizing tasks helps them stay organized and reduces stress. Make sure to include both schoolwork and fun activities.

These morning activities help children start their day on a positive note, ensuring they are well-rested, nourished, and mentally prepared for whatever the day brings.

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Children’s Program at Nevada Buddhist Vihara:

(Part 4)

September 17, 2023

By Bhante Sumitta (PhD)

(Part 1)

Inspiring Young Minds:

Bhante Sumitta's Motivational Program

@Nevada Buddhist Vihara

Published on September 18, 2023

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Part 4 of the Material

How to inspire children using this Buddhist teaching?:

The accomplishment of persistent effort (uṭṭhāna-sampadā),
The accomplishment of watchfulness (ārakkha-sampadā),
Good friendship (kaḷyānamittatā) and
Balanced livelihood (sama-jīvikatā).

Let's break down this Buddhist teaching into a child-friendly context to inspire children with its wisdom:

Imagine you have a big dream or a goal, like becoming a great artist, a scientist, or even just making new friends. Buddhism teaches us some wonderful secrets that can help you achieve your dreams and become a happier person overall. These secrets are like special ingredients for a magical recipe.

Persistent Effort (uṭṭhāna-sampadā):

This is like the superhero power of never giving up. Imagine you're trying to learn a new skill, like riding a bike. You might fall down many times, but if you keep trying and never give up, you'll eventually learn to ride that bike like a pro. It's all about hard work and determination, like a never-ending adventure.

Watchfulness (ārakkha-sampadā):

This is like having super senses. Just like Spider-Man senses danger with his spider-sense, you can learn to pay attention and be aware of what's happening around you. This helps you make good choices and stay safe, like knowing when to cross the street or when to listen to your parents.

Good Friendship (kaḷyānamittatā):

Think about your best friends, the ones who make you smile and feel happy. Good friendship is like having a team of superheroes by your side. They support you, cheer you up when you're sad, and help you become a better person. So, choose your friends wisely, and be a good friend in return.

Balanced Livelihood (sama-jīvikatā):

Imagine you're a tightrope walker, and you have to balance perfectly to stay on the rope without falling. Balanced livelihood means finding the right balance in your life, like balancing playtime and homework. It's about making sure you have time for everything you love without getting too stressed.

Now, let's put it all together: If you want to achieve your dreams and be the best version of yourself, remember to never give up (persistent effort), be aware of what's happening around you (watchfulness), surround yourself with great friends (good friendship), and find the right balance in everything you do (balanced livelihood).

These teachings are like your very own superpowers, and when you use them wisely, you can achieve amazing things and make the world a better place. So, dream big, little one, and remember these Buddhist secrets to help you on your journey to becoming a real-life superhero!

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Children’s Program at Nevada Buddhist Vihara:

(Part 3)

September 17, 2023

By Bhante Sumitta (PhD)

(Part 1)

Inspiring Young Minds:

Bhante Sumitta's Motivational Program

@Nevada Buddhist Vihara

Published on September 18, 2023

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Part 3 of the Material

Sigalovada Sutta on Idleness:

"There are, young householder, these six evil consequences in being addicted to idleness:

"He does not work, saying:

(i) that it is extremely cold,

(ii) that it is extremely hot,

(iii) that it is too late in the evening,

(iv) that it is too early in the morning,

(v) that he is extremely hungry,

(vi) that he is too full.

"Living in this way, he leaves many duties undone, new wealth he does not get, and wealth he has acquired dwindles away."

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Now let's explore this passage from the Sigalovada Sutta in a way that can inspire children:

Imagine you have a magical opportunity to make your dreams come true, but there are some obstacles in your way. The Buddha, who was a very wise teacher, once told a story that can help you understand how to overcome these obstacles and achieve your goals.

In the story, there's a person who doesn't like to do any work. They come up with six excuses for not doing their tasks:

• "It's extremely cold." They say it's too chilly to do anything, so they stay in their cozy blankets.

• "It's extremely hot." When the sun shines brightly, they complain it's too hot to do anything active.

• "It's too late in the evening." In the evening, they want to relax and play instead of working.

• "It's too early in the morning." When it's early and the world is quiet, they'd rather sleep in than start their day.

• "I'm extremely hungry." When they feel hungry, they choose to eat and forget about their responsibilities.

• "I'm too full." After eating, they feel too stuffed to do anything else.

Now, here's the exciting part: The Buddha tells us that when we keep making these excuses and avoid our responsibilities, we face some problems:

We leave many duties undone. This means we miss out on doing important things that can help us grow and learn.

We don't get new wealth. Think of new wealth as all the wonderful things you can achieve and the new skills you can learn.

The wealth we already have dwindles away. The good things we already have in our lives can start to disappear because we're not taking care of them.

So, what's the lesson here? The Buddha is telling us that if we want to make our dreams come true, we should not make excuses like "it's too hot" or "I'm too hungry." Instead, we should be brave and do the things we need to do, even when it's a bit challenging.

Just like when you study for a test even if you'd rather play, or when you help your parents even if you'd rather watch TV, you're learning to overcome these excuses. And that's how you'll grow, achieve your dreams, and keep all the wonderful things you already have in your life.

So, remember, be brave, work hard, and don't let those "too hot" or "too hungry" excuses stop you from becoming the amazing person you're meant to be!

Children’s Program at Nevada Buddhist Vihara:

(Part 2)

September 17, 2023

By Bhante Sumitta (PhD)

(Part 1)

Inspiring Young Minds:

Bhante Sumitta's Motivational Program

@Nevada Buddhist Vihara

Published on September 18, 2023

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Part 2 of the Material

Udyamena hi sidhyanti karyani na manorathaih

Na his suptaysa simhasya pravishanti mukhe mrigah:

"Efforts, not wishes, lead to success - just as deer do not enter the mouth of a sleeping lion."

Have you ever heard of a deer coming and entering the mouth of a lion while he sleeps? In that case, why are we led to believe that we can achieve success by merely thinking about it? One can achieve success only by working hard and through dedication.

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Let's break down this ancient saying (maxim / aphorism) to inspire children with its wisdom:

Imagine this:

Have you ever seen a lion sleeping peacefully in the jungle? Lions are powerful and fierce animals, but even they need to rest. Now, picture a gentle deer quietly grazing nearby. It's a peaceful scene, right?

But here's the thing:

In the saying, it asks us if we've ever heard of that deer suddenly jumping into the lion's mouth while the lion is asleep. Sounds crazy, doesn't it? Well, that's because it is!

Now, you might be wondering, "Why are we even talking about lions and deer?" Well, this saying is like a secret message from wise people a long time ago, and it's here to teach us something very important.

You see, in life, we all have dreams and goals. Maybe you want to be a brilliant scientist, a fantastic artist, or a famous athlete. These dreams are like our own beautiful deer, full of potential and possibilities.

But here's the catch:

Just like that deer doesn't jump into the lion's mouth, our dreams won't come true just by thinking about them or wishing for them. Imagine if that deer just stood there, hoping to become a lion's meal - that would be crazy, right? Well, it's just as crazy to think that our dreams will come true without any effort.

So, what's the secret? It's "Udyamena hi sidhyanti karyani," which means "Success is achieved through effort and hard work." Just like that deer has to graze, run, and be alert in the jungle, we have to work hard and stay focused on our dreams.

Here's how you can use this wisdom to inspire yourself:

Dream Big:

It's wonderful to have big dreams and aspirations. Imagine what you want to achieve and how amazing it would be.

Plan and Work:

Now, just like the deer, make a plan and start working towards your dream. Study, practice, and keep learning.

Stay Persistent:

Sometimes, it might feel tough, just like the deer might face challenges in the jungle. But remember, never give up. Keep trying, and you'll get better and closer to your dream.

Celebrate Success:

When you achieve something, no matter how small, celebrate it! It's like the deer finding a fresh patch of grass to eat.

So, remember, dreams are incredible, but they need your hard work and dedication to come true. Don't wait for your dreams to jump into your lap like that deer into the lion's mouth. Be like the deer that works hard, and one day, you'll turn your dreams into reality. You've got what it takes!

Children’s Program at Nevada Buddhist Vihara:

(Part 1)

September 17, 2023

By Bhante Sumitta (PhD)

(Part 1)

Inspiring Young Minds:

Bhante Sumitta's Motivational Program

@Nevada Buddhist Vihara

Published on September 18, 2023

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Part 1 of the Material

Niddasili sabhasili, anutthata ca yo naro,

Alaso kodhapannano, tam parabhavato mukham. (Sn 1.6: Parābhava Sutta | Downfall)

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Being fond of sleep, fond of company, indolent,

Lazy and irritable, this is a cause of one’s downfall.

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Imagine two friends, Sam and Lily. Sam loves to sleep in late every day, and when he's awake, he spends most of his time chatting with friends or watching TV. He often gets annoyed over small things and doesn't like helping others.

On the other hand, there's Lily. She wakes up early, full of energy, and starts her day with a smile. She's always ready to learn new things, help her family, and be a good friend to others.

Now, let's look at the saying: "Niddasili sabhasili, anutthata ca yo naro, Alaso kodhapannano, tam parabhavato mukham."

It's telling us that being like Sam, who loves to sleep and spend time chatting without doing anything useful, is not a good path to follow. Why? Here's the breakdown:

Fond of Sleep (Niddasili): Imagine if you spent most of your day sleeping, you'd miss out on all the fun activities, learning opportunities, and adventures that the world has to offer. Sleep is essential, but too much of it can make you miss exciting moments.

Fond of Company (Sabhasili): Socializing is great, but if you spend all your time with friends who aren't interested in doing something useful or learning, you might miss out on growing and discovering new things together.

Indolent (Anutthata): This word means being lazy or not motivated to do anything. Imagine having all these fantastic ideas and dreams but never taking action on them. That's what being indolent is like.

Lazy (Alaso): Laziness is when you don't want to put in the effort to do something, even if it's important or exciting. If you're lazy, you might miss out on all the fun and exciting things life has to offer.

Irritable (Kodhapannano): When you're irritable, you get angry easily, and it's hard to get along with others. This can make friendships difficult and less enjoyable.

So, what's the big message here for children? It's telling you not to be like Sam but to be more like Lily:

• Wake up with enthusiasm and energy.

• Be curious and excited about learning new things.

• Help your family and friends when they need you.

• Stay active and engaged in life's adventures.

• Don't let anger and irritation get in the way of your happiness and relationships.

By being like Lily, you'll be on a path to success and happiness. You'll make the most of your time, learn, grow, and build strong, positive relationships with others. So, remember, don't let sleepiness, laziness, and irritability be the cause of your downfall. Choose enthusiasm, curiosity, and kindness, and you'll find a world full of exciting opportunities waiting for you!