7 Qualities

[Guest guest]

There are, among various religiophilosophies, certain threads or sutras

that serve as a common ground. Older than the written memory of man, these are

called the Ancient Wisdoms.

 

Among the Ancient Wisdoms are the 7 virtuous qualities. These qualities are

above scrutiny and doubt; they bring only virtue and harmony.

 

These are not in any particular order of importance. They blend together, like

the metals that make a strong sword.

 

 

Patience--Enduring affliction with calmness. Tolerance; understanding.

 

Compassion--Felling the suffering of another; mercy.

 

Broadmindedness--Open-mindedness and tolerance of beliefs and attitudes.*

 

Humility--Meekness; modesty.

 

Self-confidence--Belief in oneself and abilities.*

 

Industrious--Hardworking, diligent.*

 

Devotion--Giving or applying oneself entirely. Loving; affectionate.*

 

 

*Broadmindedness expounds on the tolerance of patience. Beyond merely tolerating

the beliefs and ideas of others, we seek to understand these very beliefs and

ideas. This gives us the the larger matrix of objectivity, as we assimilate

these various items into a more complete understanding. The opposite of this is

ignorance.

 

*Self-confidence does not include arrogance. Just as we encourage a friend due

to genuine concern, we likewise encourage ourself. We are concerned for and

strive to uplift the weak areas of the mind. We are our own best friend.

 

*Industriousness is relevant. We strive to be the most productive and diligent

within the context of our particular abilities and limitations.

 

*By true devotion through our sadhana, we give of ouself freely and with purity

of purpose and loving intent. This we do in our sadhana, with family, friends,

and Mother earth. By this one quality, all other qualities follow naturally.

With time and practice, our day to day life becomes continious sadhana, with

devotion to God in all we do.

 

Mahabhakti

M