Truthfulness is an integral part of the path of awakening. It applies both to our behaviour, meaning the way we act and speak in the world, and it is experienced as a view or perception, meaning that as we remove confusion from the mind through training in truth, we experience truth with increasing clarity.
As far as training the mind and our behaviour – the practice of truthfulness is approached both from the point of view of what is to be practiced and what is to be abandoned.
What is to be practiced?
We endeavour to ‘speak and act only out of love and concern for all beings.’
What is to be abandoned?
We undertake to refrain from lying, speaking harshly, dividing others with speech (e.g. gossip) and meaningless speech.
Practice example: Today I will notice when I speak. Do I tell lies or exaggerate? Do I speak in ways that is upsetting to myself or those around me? Am I gossiping or talking about others who are not present? How can I use my words today to spread kindness and love?
