From worthlessness to worthiness…

In a generation that waters the seeds of entitlement at every turn, it is important that we are acutely aware of our own worthlessness: in a non-derogatory, objective manner. For instance leaving aside the talk about self-worth and how much salary we deserve, we honestly know that we earn way more than the hard-work we put in, compared to a labourer who toils to barely earn a bread.

It isn’t a debate about economics or kinds of work etc., but a mere awareness of the fact that we possess a lot more than we need and we deserve. Therefore before eating every meal, we can sincerely recite our own custom prayer, for instance: “What did I do to deserve this meal? My merits are so low that I hardly deserve it. But yet, out of great compassion of many, my plate is full. May I use the energy I obtain from this food to alleviate my own suffering and the suffering of all beings”.

Being aware of our own worthlessness, we experience a great sense of indebtedness towards everyone for serving us endlessly. This can give birth to the heart of great awakening, the Bodhichitta. Every act we do, can be made to point towards this aspiration, towards this responsibility that we ought to make lives of our benefactors more fulfilling.

Many may fear that being humble this way, can let others exploit us. We certainly ought to protect ourselves, but we need to ask ourselves “What is it that we have that can be exploited?” By gently asking ourselves this question repeatedly, one day, we would awaken to our true nature, and discover an endless reservoir within us that can provide to everyone endlessly. We realise our unlimited worth, paradoxically, by being aware of our worthlessness.

It is by being aware of her finitude, a dewdrop, can contain the entire sky and full moon without obstruction~

Reflection