Wise man or a fool?

Buddha said that the difference between a wise man and a fool lies in their intention. If we have a beneficial intention we are wise because all of our actions will be positive. Through engaging in positive actions we will experience good results in this life. We will create the causes for pleasant and enjoyable circumstances. If we have a bad intention our actions become impure and negative and therefore our experiences produce nothing but suffering.

So how can we change our intention? One of the best ways is to begin the practice of cherishing others. As long as we only cherish our self and think of our own happiness we will find it almost impossible to avoid committing negative actions such as killing, stealing, lying, etc. However, if we gradually begin to cherish others, recognizing that they are just like us in wishing to be happy and avoiding suffering, then our intention will become more and more pure. Eventually actions such as killing, sexual misconduct, and hurtful speech will be impossible to commit. Positive actions will become easy for us and each day we will sow the seeds for future happiness.

If we don't use our human life to practice virtue then there can be no greater deception or folly.

Fool or wise man? Guess which I am today.