“There is never any need to get worked up or to trouble your soul about things you can’t control. These things are not asking to be judged by you. Leave them alone.”
Marcus Aurelius
I got this quote from an article on upekkha, or 'even minded love', on the lovely Wildmind Buddhist meditation site. The article deals very efficiently on a topic that is both intricate and simple. Being lovingly involved with the world without becoming attached to that involvement.
It is summarised in these three sentences:
Non-equanimity is like sitting on the shore, watching waves rising and falling and cheering when the waves rise, mourning when they fall. With equanimity we recognize that the waves are not under our control. They rise, they fall; we watch, with love.Watching with love is a curious thing, it is easy to believe you have a handle on it (or the beginning of a handle of it) when times are good. But not so easy when you are disappointed, hurt or angry; and of course it is during those times when your equanimity is at its most valuable. When your love and compassion becomes a real treasure for the world.
I was just reminded of this lesson, and humbled by my lack of skill when it comes to equanimity under duress.
Love, love, love but don't be attached to the idea that the world will always love you back. Don't let the judgement of others lure you into judging. Let the waves rise and fall. Watch with love.
And ultimately, leave them alone.
