Story (The Buddha): A surly young man one day shouted at the Buddha, "Go away! You just want to take advantage of us! You teachers come here to say a few pretty words and then ask for food and money!" But the Buddha was unruffled by these insults. He remained calm, exuding a feeling of loving-kindness. He politely requested that the man come forward. Then he asked, "Young sir, if you purchased a lovely gift for someone, but that person did not accept the gift, to whom does the gift then belong?" The odd question took the young man by surprise. "I guess the gift would still be mine because I was the one who bought it". "Exactly so," replied the Buddha. "Now, you have just cursed me and been angry with me. But if I do not accept your curses, if I do not get insulted and angry in return, these curses will fall back upon you—the same as the gift returning to its owner."

Story Essence: Once we understand that we have the free will to choose how we respond to any given situation, we can choose not to move to anger, just as the Buddha did when he did not accept the young man's curses. By pausing for a moment, you can become more mindful and more skillful in dealing with your thoughts and emotions.

Specific Action: The next time you feel angry, step back for a moment and pause. Just for this small moment, you can choose not to respond in anger. Write down each time you manage to do this.

In choosing not to move to anger, we become more resilient and skillful in our interactions with others, while also minimising our own suffering and the suffering of those around us. Tomorrow we will revisit something to live for.

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