The Reflection of Stillness: Discovering Inner Peace : หน้า 10/105

ing teaches us principles that are relevant even in these modern times. In a world too often driven by expediency and instant results, ordaining asks us to be patient and look more carefully at both the world around and inside of us. A venerable monk once asked me if I have ever tried to look at nature’s mirror; to see an image of myself. I answered that I had often looked into the sea or river to catch a glimpse of my reflection. The movement of the water caused by wind, waves, or currents often distorted my likeness. This venerable monk then told me that next time; I should take my hands, and cup them just at surface level, and come back and tell him what I see. Sure enough, when I did this, I saw my own reflection… clearer than I had ever seen it before. When I returned to tell the monk, he smiled and said that only in this stillness can we truly see ourselves, only in a moment of silence, can we truly hear ourselves. And therein lies the beauty of ordaining. I would like to express my appreciation to Prabhavana-viriyakhun (Phra Phadet Dattajeevo) for his wisdom and kindness. I would like to thank the people at Wat Phra Dhammakaya for giving me this opportunity. Last, but not least, I would like to thank Woraphat Anaworayan, without whose unyielding support and encouragement, this translation would never have been completed. May the light of inner peace find its way into your hearts . Vajraorn Tasukon