Appropriate Behaviors

Criteria for Determining Appropriate Behavior



Use these criteria, in sequence, for making decisions:

1. Do no harm, then if possible
2. Be of benefit
3. If you can’t be of benefit, so nothing
4. Be morally upright: No killing, no stealing, no lying, no misuse of sexuality, no recreational drugs
5. Meditate
6. Develop wisdom

Always Use Right Speech

Only speak when it will improve the silence

1. Only speak when conditions suggest you should speak
2. Only speak when you have something to say that will be of benefit
3. Always speak in ways that can be heard
4. Only say it once
5. Never go on the battlefield; being of benefit isn’t about winning

Wrong speech:
Harsh or angry words
Falsehoods
Gossip and small talk
Sarcasm
Belittling others to raise your own status

Three Poisons and Their Antidotes

Poison: Greed, Antidote: Generosity
Poison: Anger, Antidote: Patience
Poison: Delusion, Antidote: Wisdom

Default Mind-States (Who We Really Are)

Generosity
Compassion and Lovingkindness
Patience
Humility and Modesty
Moral Restraint
Equanimity
Right Speech
Truthfulness
Dependability
Regret and Distaste