Intentions

Lotus seed pod

          Now that we’ve acknowledged that many of our character traits only compound our problems, what do we do with them? Previously we’ve acted on impulse, led by our emotions instead of logic. When we react this way, we plant seeds that will sprout and further entrench us in this behavior. For instance, every time we gossip about someone to ‘bring them down a notch,’ the easier it becomes and the more normal it seems to keep doing it over and over again. At the moment it often feels good; unfortunately, after the moment passes, we may have to deal with the fallout. Intentions can help us in this regard, as they inspire us to respond with a new, more positive action. Like suddenly realizing we need glasses to see clearly, intentions can provide a pause to allow us to view situations from a different perspective. When we feel that emotional rush to act, we can put on our new ‘glasses’ and consider if what we’re about to do is beneficial to us and others in the long run.  If not, we can consider another option. For every hindrance (negative trait) that causes harm, there is an alternative spiritual principle that heals.  Intended action from this viewpoint may be represented by one of these principles: Service, Persistence, Discernment, Trustworthiness, Compassion, Generosity, Forgiveness, Gratitude, Humility, Courage, Open-mindedness, Faith, Honesty, Mindfulness, Simplicity, Acceptance, Contentment, Kindness, Patience, Justice, Commitment, or Equanimity.

Our motivation to do something is the reason or reasons behind that behavior, the source of our desire and the drive to do it… Intention, on the other hand, is always deliberate, an articulation of a conscious goal. We set and reaffirm our best intentions to keep us inclining in the directions we truly mean to go. 

~ Thupten Jinpa

To see more information on intentions, see this post.