Previous posts in our exploration of the Eight Fold Path and the Reiki Precepts  explored those factors of the path that aid us in developing moral discipline. In the next few weeks we’ll explore those factors that enable us to develop a concentrated mind.

Walking this Eight Fold Path does require sustained effort. This is especially true for those of us who remain in society, with all its distractions and temptations.

In the Mahasakuludayi Sutta the Buddha tells us we must: awaken zeal, arouse energy, exert the mind and make effort.
We must strive for the “non-arising of unarisen wholesome states”.
We must “abandon arisen unwholesome states”.
We must strive for the  “arising of unarisen wholesome states”.
We must strive for the “continuance, non-disappearance, strengthening, increase and fulfilment by development of arisen wholesome states”.

It is worth noting the phrase “fulfilment by development”. This Eight Fold Path to the ‘end of suffering’ is a journey. The eight factors of the path become developed in a person, over time, with practise.

The Reiki Precepts teach us to ‘work diligently’. This precept can be applied in two contexts. One, as discussed previously, applies to the factor ‘right livelihood’. Secondly, it applies here, in the context of our self-development. Buddha frequently reminds us that our self-development requires ‘diligent practise’.

Maintaining sustained effort is much easier when one has the support of like-minded folk. If you would like some support on your journey of self-improvement, please feel free to contact me.