Observing the Occasional Absence of Defilement

~ By Ajahn Jayasāro ~

It is usually much easier to notice a new presence than a new absence. Presence is immediate: ‘What’s that strange object in the corner?’, ‘What a surprise, they’ve come to visit at last!’ Absence is more subtle and we often completely overlook it or perhaps just feel a vague sense of discomfort that something’s not quite right. The exceptions come when the absent thing or person is important to us: ‘Where are my glasses?’ we say in our home; ‘Why aren’t they here to meet me?’ we think at the airport.

For many Dhamma practitioners observing the occasional absence of defilement can be more difficult than observing its presence. Nevertheless, sometimes there is a small drama in our life and we find ourselves thinking that if this had occurred in the past we would have been so hurt, or jealous, or angry, or anxious. But right now we feel almost nothing. At this point we need to look a second time: ‘Truly?’ And a third time: ‘Without doubt?’ If we can confirm it, then remember the feeling that arises at such a moment. The joy, the happiness, the calm equanimity that has appeared gives great encouragement on the path.

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"Food for the Heart", a series of Dhamma teachings handwritten weekly is posted on the Buddhadāsa Indapañño Archives page with Ajahn's kind permission.

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For other teachings by Ven. Ajahn Jayasāro, please visit the Panyaprateep Foundation website.