How's your journey to happiness coming along? Timestamp 0:00 Intro 0:41 Happiness 5:02 What’s keeping you from happiness? 6:16 How to reduce greed? 10:10 Recap
Daily gratefulness practice instead of natural rumination on the negative has been transformative though I don’t practice it with enough discipline or regularity.
i encourage you to join with some of your freetime to my project of finding some few concepts at least for videgame number 76 (exactly that) on my list. I seek to make the games quite good fit to perfect fit with the numberings. i associate numbers with colours and feels and things.
I found more happiness when I decided to give up alcohol. I remember prior to, being in a dark place, not feeling anything and asking "what's the point in everything " . I've since grown more aware mentally ,physically and have reconnected with the simple things in my life that make me happy. Thank you Ven. Nick for always taking the time to remind us all what's important in this life and how to reach for it!
I decided to do it as well, not that I over used it, but somehow stopped enjoying it, I couldn’t answer myself a question : what good Im getting from drinking alcohol?
It's amazing to me how many parallels there are between the spiritual message and writings of the AA 12 steps and buddhist philosophy...thankfully Ive been sober for almost 6 years. Thank you for the positivity Ven. Nick...you're message is sure to help many as it has helped me. Peace.
3 poison according to Buddha: Loba, Dosa, Moha (Thirsty/Greed, Refusal/Hatred, Delusion). People tend to translate dosa as hatred, loba as greed, but i think it's not the exact meaning so i try to give an alternative.
Although I am a born-again christian, I deeply respect Buddhist teaching, especially Buddhist psychology. This is excellent teaching, whatever your religion. Thank you very much. I will watch this video again, and I will subscribe. Thank you.
@rz you were born a baby, not even able to think. Then people told you to believe in the ridiculous book of the bible, so you did. You swallowed the trick hook, line, and sinker. Knowledge of yours consists of magical thinking, and supernatural superstition which can hardly be called knowledge at all.
Early this morning (when I couldn’t sleep - again) I prayed for guidance. After forcing thoughts, forcing a new job search where nothing felt authentic, forcing a next step without direction - a little voice told me I’d already started it. To keep going. On Jan. 3rd, I started a daily journal (each entry closes with what I’m grateful for). It was meant to get me “unstuck” - with intention to do something different each day. Even if it’s simply reading a book instead of working late. Slow changes that I hope will turn to bigger revelations - and ultimately a framework to help others. I’m a writer. And currently my skill is used for, well, nothing that includes giving. And it’s hurting me and those around me. I’m done with that. After my “little voice” moment, I settled in for another crazy Monday at work. Then I randomly got a notice for this video. I’d never received one for your channel before. So, I stopped - and listened. Pure validation for the prayer I prayed early this morning. Thank you so much for what you do. Today, I am grateful for you ❤
Aww thank you so much and I’m glad it was helpful. Please keep doing those entries. It’s quite important to getting the momentum moving. Keep up the great work my friend and i hope the world will get to witness your gift 😊😊😊 Don’t give up!
I would just like to take a moment to say how kindhearted and wonderful everyone in the comments section is. Thank you all for the kind words and reassurance that everything will be okay. I am on the autism spectrum, and often mask how I feel, so listening to music like this really helps me process these feelings, and oftentimes cry because of it. Like I’m free to be myself and not try to conform for others’ comfort. In a world with so many harsh sounds, something about music that is so gentle to the ear just makes me cry.
I get you completely. When I need a good cry I know how to use powerful music to open a floodgate inside , enabling me to deeply lean into layers of my life experiences. Not sadness, but a mash up of an intense spectrum of heart and mind. It's become a profound release of repressed feelings and gives me the gift of love, forgiveness, redemption.
As a person who was formally trained in medicinal science, I always keep an open mind when it comes to the subject of religion and spirituality. I think everyone’s faith or belief is very personal, very sacred and should be respected. And I have never thought my faith is better than others’. No religion is really superior to the others because there is a common thread that runs across all religions when it comes to moral principles and obligations. Regardless of which faith or creed we choose, the pursuit of happiness is a common human goal. I believe the practice of “gratitude”, “giving” and “meditation” as shown in this video makes perfect sense psychologically and is pragmatic for ALL of us. Thank you very much Ven. Nick for doing your part of “GIVING” 🙏🙏🙏
I have hit another crisis in my life and it (unfortunately) came in a time when I’m also not keeping up with daily meditation. Your youtube channel is so helpful when I’m not able to go to the temple, Venerable Nick. After watching this (for the 3rd time lol), I feel ready to get back on track 🙏🏼 thank you for your wisdom
Nick, I came here because I felt fearful, and I received so much ‘more’ - thank you for your giving us all these treasures that we can return to- a little bit of growth, a little bit of backslide, but then: an actual antidote recognized! I will need this talk through out my life Nick!!❤️
The Smile you give brother, is so innocent, nirmal, and pure , it touches heart, it feels like listening to my sibling in the crop-field, I always hoped for a big brother, which I dont have, but your laugh touches my heart, Thanks, Sadhu Sadhu 🙏🤗🎇⛺💧
Anxiety and depression are mental illnesses which can be genetically predisposed or due to trauma, loss, or other factors. People with these conditions experience happiness too. Please stop with the platitudes and take the advice for what it is without minimizing very real illnesses
@@caitlyn7984 yeah no shit there are biochemical disorders that make some people feel these far more severe but he’s not wrong, you act like only people with anxiety and depression disorders can feel anxious or depressed.
What do I have at this moment? Peace, quiet, order, and goodness. When I step back and look clearly, this is what I see. I must practice more diligently.
"Imagine waking up tomorrow with only what you were grateful for yesterday." I just heard this quote...I don't remember where...but it's really thought provoking.
Thanks Venerable Nick. I needed that. I wasn't content or grateful for what I had. I was always craving more. I didn't realize that was what was causing me to be unhappy, It was so EASY to get caught in the world's materialism.
Thank you for those advices. When I notice my happiness had decreased, I start to remember how I came on this earth, asking nothing and starting to get conscience of my environment. By the time people told me stories about my country , my race, my god, my family, my social position ... and I started to build an identity. This identity is my enemy, when I realize that all the stories are not me, I get rid of that identity, I am only a vessel to hold my conscience and I am happy. By this view, I see also people like vessel carrying consciousness and I can love them. Maybe what I say is just rubbish but it help me to maintain happiness in my heart. That’s why I share it with you.
Pra Ajarn I think that many people are obsessed with extremes of feelings. You just mentioned the very point I wanted to make about contentment. Learning to feel happy at smaller things will allow us to become happy more easily. Right now the sky is blue and I can hear birds singing. Coming through depression has allowed me to derive happiness from such simple things.
I've lived in the trauma, and the past I've been afraid of the future been stuck in,past and trauma, moving forward no other place to go finding happiness learning to let go thank you for this video very helpful and encouraging. Greed and unforgivness thank you for helping me see this
i have learned deeply from your teachings but your voice is so calming i sometimes become so rested i doze off. It is the most restful nap,thank you. So i have to repeat each lesson many times to hear the whole message.
Thank you Nick for the info. I don’t profess to be Buddhist or achieving enlightenment. However, I’ve still always admired Buddhists for their gentleness, dedication to peace, and helping others. I found you recently while going through the darkest time of my life mentally, and love the teachings and realize that most or all of these things can be used by anyone of just about any faith. I think Buddhist practices can be applied to Christianity as well for physical and mental health and connecting with God more. Much respect and love, and thanks again for your lessons sir.
Thank you for this talk 🙏🙏🙏A simple way to develop gratitude that I have learnt years ago which I found to be very effective. Prepare your meal then look at your plate- Think of the people who have grown the food, picked it, cleaned it, packaged it, put it on the shelf, sold it to you. This opens your heart to all these people whatever the colour of their skin, their nationalities, their education level .... You feel gratitude and this also prime you for being generous as you feel a sense of community with all living beings. Another bonus is that it develop humility and a sense of responsibility as you realise that you are dependent of these people and that they are also dependent on you.
This rings very true to me. I've been reducing my life to the things I truly care about, and I no longer run after every craving or idea I have. Meditation did exactly what you describe - I now have more space in the moment to recognize craving/greed and let it pass. This has made me more content, which leaves me more energy to give to others, which makes me happy. It's a win-win situation all around!
Thank you Ven. Nick. I have taken notes. I understand greed in a new way thanks to this video. Time for me to reflect on this. The sadness I feel is definitely because of something I am thinking a lot about from my past...lots of ruminating. And...I never looked at it in a way of ''greed'' however...yes...it makes sense. It's about what ''I AM'' not experiencing anymore. What is no longer in my life....wow....eye opener. Thank you again. I appreciate your channel very much. 🙏
I attended my first Vipassana meditation session last month and now I can understand better what you say, now It is a bit easy to in corporate your teachings in daily life, meditation has really changed my life. Now I can really feel that gap. Impulsiveness has reduced to a greater extent, It feels like my mind is in my control now unlike how it was on autopilot mode before attending meditation. Thanks to Mr Goenka for bringing back the Vipassana meditation to the mother land.
When I look at my present moment, without it being distorted by the past or future, is great. Only cares are those that any responsible adult would have to maintain "themselves" in this life. But notice that I said cares, not worried. There's a difference. And everything is routine, quiet, peaceful, orderly, and good.
Thank you for this teaching. There is a saying 'give and you shall receive'. It is true. I have been helping several young people with school fees. It brings me so much joy but some times I get worried in case I don't have enough to help them. But somehow, when it's time to pay I have enough. It makes me happy and relieved!
Possibly another way to look at the mind: Ask yourself what is disturbing my mind? Then let go of the desire. A calm mind is the closest to God. You are consciousness, being, limitless. Tat, twam, asi. You are that.
Dear Ven. Nick, to me this is one of your best videos. Regardless of our faith or creed, the pursuit of happiness is a common human goal for all of us. In just less than 15 minutes, you have shown us how to be content with our lives by living in the “now” and practicing “gratitude”, how to curb “greed” by practicing “giving” and “meditation”. You have successfully covered from causes (of suffering) to solutions (for happiness) - like many books in one and almost like the Dharma of the “Four Noble Truths”. In essence, you have been practicing “Giving” yourself. Those like me recognize and are thankful for the goodness of your work and by applying your teachings into our daily lives, I am sure we will be more content. Many thanks 🙏🙏🙏
Rev Nick, I meant every word of that because they are appropriate for your contributions. I live in Canada. Is it possible to pay you a visit when I am traveling to California? Or do you post training courses somewhere?
@@jerrylam8687 thank you. And sure, you’re welcome to visit. We will be in California until April 24th. Then back again for the month of July before heading back to Thailand. We teach every Sunday at 9am. Here is our website. Www.peacepointmeditation.org
Excellent - Most helpful - This video is a "keeper" that I'm going to replay. You're the only person who has given such a full and complete answer where Greed is the underlying problem. Then counteracting the Greed with Giving and using meditation to calm myself down so that I can be in the present. Many thanks......all the way from London !
thank you. I would describe meditation as, you can't appreciate the value of the present moment if you don't experience the present moment. so meditation teaches you how to experience the present moment.
Hi Nick. Thank you for your precious teachings. Not that I have been an expert on putting to practice your topics, one thing I notice in my life is that I am being increasingly followed/attacked by narcissistic personalities at jobs. Now looking from a distance, the periods when I have these jobs it's when I am most unhappy in life. I "forget" to be in the present moment, taking this constant attacks and provocations with me to my home. Then the rage sets in...
@@maggamoosie801 thanks for sharing. Interesting word: "agreeableness". I got that same definition about myself from an exterior point of view, from a distant cousin. I never would have thought about that but makes total sense. You know, I also think that I should have quit more often... but I'm on the third consecutive job with this pattern. Maybe we should deal with this, really facing it and not running away...
Until the end of this year, I need to study and practice a lot of drawing and painting, evolve as much as I can, make some projects to create a portfolio and send to companies, so hopefully I'll have a job early next year. It's necessary cause I have money to support myself only until december. This situation gives me anxiety and studying becomes more difficult. I get a little distressed when I have to sit in the chair to study, increasing my procrastination even though there is this urgency. I know I need to connect me to the joy of just being here, living and having the possibility to do what I wanted for so long, but it's so difficult for me to be in the present when I think about the need to evolve as a artist. It's quite a challenge to sit everyday, overcome the urge to run away from the difficult of studying, and just relax into the feeling of enjoying the learning process. I think about everything I need to study, and I end up running through the contents and wanting to study a little bit of everything, jumping from branch to branch without respecting the process and the order of things. I know that if I keep myself calm, study and focus on one thing at a time, without fear, I will be able to learn a lot more in a year than I'll learn if I continue at the pace I am. I'm aware of this but it's so difficult to adopt this posture 🙈
Wow, greed! What a powerful perspective! I find when I don’t journal in the morning and evening, which consists of prompts I’ve pre-established, included gratitude and many of those you mentioned, my mood drops. Even though I’m recovering from illness, I find little ways to give, like thanking someone who helped me or send a friend a gratitude text for being in my life. You’re absolutely right, this practice helps with happiness a lot!! ❤
Well, thank you for your reflections. I haven't any problem regard this argument: I think I'll never be Happy in this world. That's all. Peace everybody💙
Fascinating that greed in all its forms is an obstacle to my happiness, Fortunately I have a skill can easily donate as an antidote to my greed desires in other areas hopefully,tks Ajahn Nick
Today as I was putting my toddler grandson down for a nap I bent my head and kissed his cheek. He stretched his head up and kissed me back. I whispered “thank you” and he whispered back “you’re welcome”. Perfect happiness. He ended up not napping, but it was okay.
Ven Nick, Your words and wisdom always help me find my center. They have a gravitational force that brings me to the present. I have built my morning ritual around that force. And will periodically check in throughout the day with that force. You bring great value and meaning to my life. How beautiful it must be to affect the lives of others in that way. I am trying to pay it forward in any way I can. Namu Amida Butsu!
Constantly evolving around the area of seeking as a seeker and at some point, one would settle with the generous present moment with a dearest companion of self satisfaction. Thank you for the reminder.
*If a person overlooks the faults of others, appreciating only their merits, and thus maintaining composure in his mind, his whole life will be happy.* Namaskara
Waking up morning doing the same stuff all over again. Feeling empty,broken,pain and i am so afraid to be happy that if I became happy something bad gonna happen to the People I love and care. I hope listening to you would help me see some light in life.
Yes I am! We teach on Sundays in Azusa. Also we will have a big outdoor candlelight event on January the 28th. Feel free to join us. Here’s the website with more info: Www.peacepointmeditation.org
Venerable Nick, I was hoping to ask for your guidance on how to interpret bad things happening to good people, good things happening to bad people and to better understand how suffering is distributed among us. If you have the time to share your wisdom with us in a future video I would be humbly thankful. Kindest regards from Vermont
I agree! When I feel greed it does not feel good. It feels desperate, constricting and agitating. I have given away nearly half of all my belongings- as well as my deceased parents save for a few trinkets, photos, letters and have one piece of their furniture. All my other things are clothing, books and a few necessities. I feel more happy than if I had a whole house full of things! Contentment though is so rich and it comes in quiet moments-doing dishes, gazing out the window with a cup of tea, sitting with a loved one looking at the stars. Happiness comes from doing Yoga, talking with friends and family and meditating with my Sangha. I do need to start a gratitude practice! Thank you Venerable Nick for these wonderful videos!
Thank you. I have just found your channel today. I have also recently discovered and attended my local Buddhist Teaching Monastery. So happy to have started my journey of increased happiness and feel you will complement each other to guide me in my learning and new daily habits.
There's actually a third dimension we can live in now with our phones. The present, but not in our present location. I.e consuming media, or discussing things online that have no real bearing on our current situation. I am working on this as much as the other 2 now.
Of course you are spot on in your wisdom. Vipassana meditation will change your life as will a gratitude practice as soon as you wake up in the morning before you even move your body. Thanks for this video, thanks for Nick’s wisdom and give thanks for this day.
5:36 : More can also be once having entered the new path and reduced noise and unskilful things, the lack of it sometimes seems to arise as the desire for reintroducing it again...more! Illusions, so I have "fun" with it and it seems I'm in a sort of mental rehab---tie myself down with flowers and dry out from the crazy life taught before haha
How's your journey to happiness coming along?
Timestamp
0:00 Intro
0:41 Happiness
5:02 What’s keeping you from happiness?
6:16 How to reduce greed?
10:10 Recap
Daily gratefulness practice instead of natural rumination on the negative has been transformative though I don’t practice it with enough discipline or regularity.
AAAAH you are much better now considering the microexpression and composition.
I am happy with the future and occasionall with a handful of moments of the past (near past, meaning in this life).
i encourage you to join with some of your freetime to my project of finding some few concepts at least for videgame number 76 (exactly that) on my list.
I seek to make the games quite good fit to perfect fit with the numberings. i associate numbers with colours and feels and things.
i have an 81 point list
Living in the future causes anxiety and living in the past causes depression. We must live in the present.
yes to this.
FACTS
🎯 and FAR easier to say than do. 🐝ing 🎁is a process. Those old habits & brain grooves can be deep…
Yes I should apply this to my life
For me the present is depressing, the past is nostalgic, the future anxiety, so definitely lost
1. Present moment, 2. gratitude, 3.less greed by giving, 4. meditation practice.
Thank you 😊
Gratitude does indicate you have forgiven, but focusing on forgiving grievances will give you even more to be grateful for.
2. Contentment
The complete opposite to what Americans are told and believe !
Flip the order of importance
I found more happiness when I decided to give up alcohol. I remember prior to, being in a dark place, not feeling anything and asking "what's the point in everything " . I've since grown more aware mentally ,physically and have reconnected with the simple things in my life that make me happy. Thank you Ven. Nick for always taking the time to remind us all what's important in this life and how to reach for it!
Yes, same here!!!
Me too.
I decided to do it as well, not that I over used it, but somehow stopped enjoying it, I couldn’t answer myself a question : what good Im getting from drinking alcohol?
It's amazing to me how many parallels there are between the spiritual message and writings of the AA 12 steps and buddhist philosophy...thankfully Ive been sober for almost 6 years. Thank you for the positivity Ven. Nick...you're message is sure to help many as it has helped me. Peace.
I enjoy Alcohol, the social aspect.
I am totally happy, meditation practice for yrs.
But it's a drug that doesn't suit everyone.
Greed takes us to consumption, to compare to others, to envying and finally to loose our peace of mind. Thank you 🙏
Yes definitely! We need to keep being mindful of it 😊
3 poison according to Buddha: Loba, Dosa, Moha (Thirsty/Greed, Refusal/Hatred, Delusion). People tend to translate dosa as hatred, loba as greed, but i think it's not the exact meaning so i try to give an alternative.
❤👌🙏❤👌🙏
Ana ~ so well put 😊
Very very true. Mammon is out there and very real
Although I am a born-again christian, I deeply respect Buddhist teaching, especially Buddhist psychology. This is excellent teaching, whatever your religion. Thank you very much. I will watch this video again, and I will subscribe. Thank you.
Thank you so much Joe 😊
I'm Atheist, and also appreciate the teachings of mindfulness.
@rz no, you're just indoctrinated
@rz you were born a baby, not even able to think. Then people told you to believe in the ridiculous book of the bible, so you did. You swallowed the trick hook, line, and sinker. Knowledge of yours consists of magical thinking, and supernatural superstition which can hardly be called knowledge at all.
@rz Nothing can change because you've closed your mind.
Early this morning (when I couldn’t sleep - again) I prayed for guidance. After forcing thoughts, forcing a new job search where nothing felt authentic, forcing a next step without direction - a little voice told me I’d already started it. To keep going. On Jan. 3rd, I started a daily journal (each entry closes with what I’m grateful for). It was meant to get me “unstuck” - with intention to do something different each day. Even if it’s simply reading a book instead of working late. Slow changes that I hope will turn to bigger revelations - and ultimately a framework to help others. I’m a writer. And currently my skill is used for, well, nothing that includes giving. And it’s hurting me and those around me. I’m done with that. After my “little voice” moment, I settled in for another crazy Monday at work. Then I randomly got a notice for this video. I’d never received one for your channel before. So, I stopped - and listened. Pure validation for the prayer I prayed early this morning. Thank you so much for what you do. Today, I am grateful for you ❤
Aww thank you so much and I’m glad it was helpful. Please keep doing those entries. It’s quite important to getting the momentum moving. Keep up the great work my friend and i hope the world will get to witness your gift 😊😊😊 Don’t give up!
Namo Buddhaya 🙏😊
Thanks for sharing 👍 very inspirational
I would just like to take a moment to say how kindhearted and wonderful everyone in the comments section is. Thank you all for the kind words and reassurance that everything will be okay.
I am on the autism spectrum, and often mask how I feel, so listening to music like this really helps me process these feelings, and oftentimes cry because of it. Like I’m free to be myself and not try to conform for others’ comfort. In a world with so many harsh sounds, something about music that is so gentle to the ear just makes me cry.
❤👌🙏❤👌🙏
I get you completely. When I need a good cry I know how to use powerful music to open a floodgate inside , enabling me to deeply lean into layers of my life experiences. Not sadness, but a mash up of an intense spectrum of heart and mind. It's become a profound release of repressed feelings and gives me the gift of love, forgiveness, redemption.
As a person who was formally trained in medicinal science, I always keep an open mind when it comes to the subject of religion and spirituality.
I think everyone’s faith or belief is very personal, very sacred and should be respected. And I have never thought my faith is better than others’. No religion is really superior to the others because there is a common thread that runs across all religions when it comes to moral principles and obligations.
Regardless of which faith or creed we choose, the pursuit of happiness is a common human goal. I believe the practice of “gratitude”, “giving” and “meditation” as shown in this video makes perfect sense psychologically and is pragmatic for ALL of us.
Thank you very much Ven. Nick for doing your part of “GIVING” 🙏🙏🙏
I have hit another crisis in my life and it (unfortunately) came in a time when I’m also not keeping up with daily meditation. Your youtube channel is so helpful when I’m not able to go to the temple, Venerable Nick. After watching this (for the 3rd time lol), I feel ready to get back on track 🙏🏼 thank you for your wisdom
Nick, I came here because I felt fearful, and I received so much ‘more’ - thank you for your giving us all these treasures that we can return to- a little bit of growth, a little bit of backslide, but then: an actual antidote recognized! I will need this talk through out my life Nick!!❤️
God bless the monks
Sadhu sadhu thank you so much 😊
I am at the age of 68 and am happy all my life! To live happily ever after is not to pursuit it, that’s it, Dude!
The Smile you give brother, is so innocent, nirmal, and pure , it touches heart, it feels like listening to my sibling in the crop-field, I always hoped for a big brother, which I dont have, but your laugh touches my heart, Thanks, Sadhu Sadhu 🙏🤗🎇⛺💧
The intro music always makes me sad 😢. I appreciate all the wisdom
Is these videos
Thank you so much 😊
Anxiety is fear of the future, depression is fear of the past. Happiness is living in the moment and in gratitude.
Anxiety and depression are mental illnesses which can be genetically predisposed or due to trauma, loss, or other factors. People with these conditions experience happiness too. Please stop with the platitudes and take the advice for what it is without minimizing very real illnesses
@@caitlyn7984 yeah no shit there are biochemical disorders that make some people feel these far more severe but he’s not wrong, you act like only people with anxiety and depression disorders can feel anxious or depressed.
What do I have at this moment? Peace, quiet, order, and goodness. When I step back and look clearly, this is what I see. I must practice more diligently.
"Imagine waking up tomorrow with only what you were grateful for yesterday."
I just heard this quote...I don't remember where...but it's really thought provoking.
That is a very interesting perspective.
Very wise and we all know individually what those things would be 💚🙏
Everyone here can give right now by subscribing to this channel for Nick!😊🙏🕊
😊😊
Thank you for showing me how close I am coming to the inlightmet of love and peace. I am not there yet because I want to dig deeper into my soul.
Wonderful Benny! Keep working at it. You got this 😊
Thanks Venerable Nick. I needed that. I wasn't content or grateful for what I had. I was always craving more. I didn't realize that was what was causing me to be unhappy, It was so EASY to get caught in the world's materialism.
Thank you for those advices.
When I notice my happiness had decreased, I start to remember how I came on this earth, asking nothing and starting to get conscience of my environment.
By the time people told me stories about my country , my race, my god, my family, my social position ... and I started to build an identity.
This identity is my enemy, when I realize that all the stories are not me, I get rid of that identity, I am only a vessel to hold my conscience and I am happy.
By this view, I see also people like vessel carrying consciousness and I can love them.
Maybe what I say is just rubbish but it help me to maintain happiness in my heart. That’s why I share it with you.
Wonderful my friend! That’s great 😊
That's amazing! It's exactly the concept of non-self in Buddhism. May you be happy and at peace :)
I remember meeting a Buddhist nun years ago. She told me that if you can’t find happiness then try contentment. Very wise words.
Pra Ajarn
I think that many people are obsessed with extremes of feelings. You just mentioned the very point I wanted to make about contentment. Learning to feel happy at smaller things will allow us to become happy more easily. Right now the sky is blue and I can hear birds singing. Coming through depression has allowed me to derive happiness from such simple things.
In notions of love...A sea of merit... Thanks for your healing.. you arrived.
Gratitude is key! Without it, happiness will always be far ahead of you.
I've lived in the trauma, and the past I've been afraid of the future been stuck in,past and trauma, moving forward no other place to go finding happiness learning to let go thank you for this video very helpful and encouraging. Greed and unforgivness thank you for helping me see this
i have learned deeply from your teachings but your voice is so calming i sometimes become so rested i doze off. It is the most restful nap,thank you. So i have to repeat each lesson many times to hear the whole message.
I love that. You get to nap and learn 😊😊 thank you Nadine!
Thank you Nick for the info. I don’t profess to be Buddhist or achieving enlightenment. However, I’ve still always admired Buddhists for their gentleness, dedication to peace, and helping others.
I found you recently while going through the darkest time of my life mentally, and love the teachings and realize that most or all of these things can be used by anyone of just about any faith.
I think Buddhist practices can be applied to Christianity as well for physical and mental health and connecting with God more.
Much respect and love, and thanks again for your lessons sir.
Thank you for this talk 🙏🙏🙏A simple way to develop gratitude that I have learnt years ago which I found to be very effective. Prepare your meal then look at your plate- Think of the people who have grown the food, picked it, cleaned it, packaged it, put it on the shelf, sold it to you. This opens your heart to all these people whatever the colour of their skin, their nationalities, their education level .... You feel gratitude and this also prime you for being generous as you feel a sense of community with all living beings. Another bonus is that it develop humility and a sense of responsibility as you realise that you are dependent of these people and that they are also dependent on you.
Thank you. Sadhu Anumodana 🙏🌻🙏
You’re welcome ☺️
This rings very true to me. I've been reducing my life to the things I truly care about, and I no longer run after every craving or idea I have. Meditation did exactly what you describe - I now have more space in the moment to recognize craving/greed and let it pass. This has made me more content, which leaves me more energy to give to others, which makes me happy. It's a win-win situation all around!
Legit how I am happy these days is by fulfilling 100% of my needs and wants and then just enjoying the process
Thank you Ven. Nick. I have taken notes. I understand greed in a new way thanks to this video. Time for me to reflect on this. The sadness I feel is definitely because of something I am thinking a lot about from my past...lots of ruminating. And...I never looked at it in a way of ''greed'' however...yes...it makes sense. It's about what ''I AM'' not experiencing anymore. What is no longer in my life....wow....eye opener. Thank you again. I appreciate your channel very much. 🙏
Glad you enjoyed it and that it was helpful. Thank you so much 😊
"At the root of all unhappiness are expectations." Dr. M. Scott Peck - author of "The Road Less Traveled." Good wisdom here.
I attended my first Vipassana meditation session last month and now I can understand better what you say, now It is a bit easy to in corporate your teachings in daily life, meditation has really changed my life. Now I can really feel that gap. Impulsiveness has reduced to a greater extent, It feels like my mind is in my control now unlike how it was on autopilot mode before attending meditation. Thanks to Mr Goenka for bringing back the Vipassana meditation to the mother land.
Wow that’s wonderful! I’m glad you had that experience. Please keep it up 😊
❤👌🙏❤👌🙏
When I look at my present moment, without it being distorted by the past or future, is great. Only cares are those that any responsible adult would have to maintain "themselves" in this life. But notice that I said cares, not worried. There's a difference. And everything is routine, quiet, peaceful, orderly, and good.
Another amazing class aimed at inspiring and encouraging us to create heaven on earth. Thank you 🌻
Aww thank you so much for your kindness Sihle 😊😊😊
Namo Buddhaya 🙏😊
Dear friend, thanks again,your direction brings “soul shelters”,DEEP BOW.
You’re welcome ☺️ thank you
Thank you for this teaching. There is a saying 'give and you shall receive'. It is true. I have been helping several young people with school fees. It brings me so much joy but some times I get worried in case I don't have enough to help them. But somehow, when it's time to pay I have enough. It makes me happy and relieved!
Isn‘t it „Ask and you shall receive.“?
Possibly another way to look at the mind: Ask yourself what is disturbing my mind? Then let go of the desire. A calm mind is the closest to God. You are consciousness, being, limitless. Tat, twam, asi. You are that.
Dear Ven. Nick, to me this is one of your best videos. Regardless of our faith or creed, the pursuit of happiness is a common human goal for all of us. In just less than 15 minutes, you have shown us how to be content with our lives by living in the “now” and practicing “gratitude”, how to curb “greed” by practicing “giving” and “meditation”. You have successfully covered from causes (of suffering) to solutions (for happiness) - like many books in one and almost like the Dharma of the “Four Noble Truths”. In essence, you have been practicing “Giving” yourself. Those like me recognize and are thankful for the goodness of your work and by applying your teachings into our daily lives, I am sure we will be more content. Many thanks 🙏🙏🙏
Awww thank you so much for your kind words. That’s very sweet of you. Thank you 😊
Rev Nick, I meant every word of that because they are appropriate for your contributions.
I live in Canada. Is it possible to pay you a visit when I am traveling to California? Or do you post training courses somewhere?
@@jerrylam8687 thank you. And sure, you’re welcome to visit. We will be in California until April 24th. Then back again for the month of July before heading back to Thailand. We teach every Sunday at 9am. Here is our website.
Www.peacepointmeditation.org
Thank you so much Ven.Nick! I will recommend it to my friends in California 🙏🙏🙏
Hey, thank you! I really appreciate you! This message came to me at a good time and I feel happier. The world gets better with giving :)
Thank you so much Michael. Glad it was helpful 😊
I've never been happier than going on a hike and just living in that time.
Excellent - Most helpful - This video is a "keeper" that I'm going to replay.
You're the only person who has given such a full and complete answer where Greed is the underlying problem.
Then counteracting the Greed with Giving and using meditation to calm myself down so that I can be in the present.
Many thanks......all the way from London !
Thank you so much Paul! 😊
the joy of giving is wonderful
Yes it is 😊😊
Excellent guidance! Your direction is pure, simple, motivational and I love your sense of humor! Thank you for sharing your wisdom, Nick.❤
Thank you so much 😊
thank you. I would describe meditation as, you can't appreciate the value of the present moment if you don't experience the present moment. so meditation teaches you how to experience the present moment.
I hope this video gets 8 billion views and lots of people take this lesson to heart. ❤
Thank you so much my friend 😊
I preach the same to others , but I try hard ;) to apply to my life
Thank you for the advice! Happy New year!🤗
It’s my pleasure! Thank you so much and happy new year to you also 😊
This channel is absolute quality
Aww thank you so much my friend! Glad you are enjoying it 😊
Hi Nick. Thank you for your precious teachings. Not that I have been an expert on putting to practice your topics, one thing I notice in my life is that I am being increasingly followed/attacked by narcissistic personalities at jobs. Now looking from a distance, the periods when I have these jobs it's when I am most unhappy in life. I "forget" to be in the present moment, taking this constant attacks and provocations with me to my home. Then the rage sets in...
Yes if you can, always come back to the present moment. It’ll keep you grounded 😊
@@maggamoosie801 thanks for sharing. Interesting word: "agreeableness". I got that same definition about myself from an exterior point of view, from a distant cousin. I never would have thought about that but makes total sense. You know, I also think that I should have quit more often... but I'm on the third consecutive job with this pattern. Maybe we should deal with this, really facing it and not running away...
Until the end of this year, I need to study and practice a lot of drawing and painting, evolve as much as I can, make some projects to create a portfolio and send to companies, so hopefully I'll have a job early next year. It's necessary cause I have money to support myself only until december. This situation gives me anxiety and studying becomes more difficult. I get a little distressed when I have to sit in the chair to study, increasing my procrastination even though there is this urgency.
I know I need to connect me to the joy of just being here, living and having the possibility to do what I wanted for so long, but it's so difficult for me to be in the present when I think about the need to evolve as a artist. It's quite a challenge to sit everyday, overcome the urge to run away from the difficult of studying, and just relax into the feeling of enjoying the learning process.
I think about everything I need to study, and I end up running through the contents and wanting to study a little bit of everything, jumping from branch to branch without respecting the process and the order of things. I know that if I keep myself calm, study and focus on one thing at a time, without fear, I will be able to learn a lot more in a year than I'll learn if I continue at the pace I am. I'm aware of this but it's so difficult to adopt this posture 🙈
Thank you for your wonderful words of wisdom for this New Year! Namaste Nick! 🙏🙏
You are so welcome. Thank you so much 😊
Awww.. this is goood.. Thank You!
May We ALL have JOY, Satisfaction & ThankFULLness🤲🏼💙✌🏼💙👊🏼
Thank you 😊
Wow, greed! What a powerful perspective! I find when I don’t journal in the morning and evening, which consists of prompts I’ve pre-established, included gratitude and many of those you mentioned, my mood drops. Even though I’m recovering from illness, I find little ways to give, like thanking someone who helped me or send a friend a gratitude text for being in my life. You’re absolutely right, this practice helps with happiness a lot!! ❤
Wow wonderful. Please keep up with your daily practice 😊
I love the teaching of this video!
I only wish that the fact of greed being what prevents happines, was presented in the begining.
Thank you so much 😊
The perfect wisdom for the frustration and unease I was feeling today, thank you Nick! 👏🏻
I will start to incorporate this wisdom into my daily life 😊
Wonderful Rowan. Good luck and please keep us up to date on your progress 😊
You make it so simple! Gratitude, Giving, Greed, meditation.
Thank you so much 😊
Counting my blessings everyday is one of the tips to be happy !
My gratitude list will start with the wisdom you are sharing with all of us 🙏
Well, thank you for your reflections. I haven't any problem regard this argument: I think I'll never be Happy in this world. That's all.
Peace everybody💙
How it can be helpful.
I love your wisdom and practicality! It makes all these things that seem daunting, way more manageable. Thanks so much!
Aww thank you so much Laurie Ann! I love that it’s helpful 😊😊😊
Fascinating that greed in all its forms is an obstacle to my happiness, Fortunately I have a skill can easily donate as an antidote to my greed desires in other areas hopefully,tks Ajahn Nick
That’s so awesome my friend. Keep it up :-)
As always, great teaching and insight. My hope is that your words will be heeded, because it will save them from a lot of pain and disappointment.
Thank you so much 😊
🙏
I loved the last statement "once the cup is empty, then it can be filled up again." Thank you, Master.
Today as I was putting my toddler grandson down for a nap I bent my head and kissed his cheek. He stretched his head up and kissed me back. I whispered “thank you” and he whispered back “you’re welcome”. Perfect happiness. He ended up not napping, but it was okay.
WONDERFUL, i am grateful Venerable, thank you, thank you!
You are so welcome! Thank you 😊
These words heal. Thank you!
Aww thank you so much my friend. I’m glad it’s helpful 😊
This man is centered and wise😊
Ven Nick, Your words and wisdom always help me find my center. They have a gravitational force that brings me to the present. I have built my morning ritual around that force. And will periodically check in throughout the day with that force. You bring great value and meaning to my life. How beautiful it must be to affect the lives of others in that way. I am trying to pay it forward in any way I can. Namu Amida Butsu!
Wonderful! I’m glad it’s helpful. Thank you so much 😊
Constantly evolving around the area of seeking as a seeker and at some point, one would settle with the generous present moment with a dearest companion of self satisfaction. Thank you for the reminder.
Thank you for always teaching us. You always know when we need guidance! This is exactly what I needed. ❤😊
Perfect! I’m glad it came at the right time 😊
The more I give the more I receive ,the universe is alive and well.
You have definitely changed my life Nick. I am so grateful. Nancy
Aww thank you so much for your kind words! I’m glad these videos are helpful Nancy 😊😊😊
Peace is Superior to Happiness
Peace grows from the fertile soil of Truth
*If a person overlooks the faults of others, appreciating only their merits, and thus maintaining composure in his mind, his whole life will be happy.* Namaskara
Sadhu sadhu! Thank you so much 😊
❤👌🙏❤👌🙏
Waking up morning doing the same stuff all over again. Feeling empty,broken,pain and i am so afraid to be happy that if I became happy something bad gonna happen to the People I love and care.
I hope listening to you would help me see some light in life.
Are you back in California? I am in LA and it’s raining a lot!
Thank you for you input in the community! Namaste..
Yes I am! We teach on Sundays in Azusa. Also we will have a big outdoor candlelight event on January the 28th. Feel free to join us. Here’s the website with more info:
Www.peacepointmeditation.org
It is such a simple summary which seems obvious, but somehow i was not seeing it, until you put it into words. Thank you, im starting practicing.
Thank you so much 😊
12:28 I felt that. Thank you Brother Nick.
Thank you so much warren! 😊😊
Oh ! There you are . So True . I could not find you for a long time . Great guidance.😇
Venerable Nick, I was hoping to ask for your guidance on how to interpret bad things happening to good people, good things happening to bad people and to better understand how suffering is distributed among us. If you have the time to share your wisdom with us in a future video I would be humbly thankful. Kindest regards from Vermont
Great topic. Thank you for the suggestion 😊
I would love to hear this as well! I was just wondering the same thing watching this video!
Very very helpful, thanks a lot, you are a blessing and I am thankful for having the chance to listen to you.
You are so welcome. Thank you so much 😊
Thankyou Nick, keep those wise words coming. My life has changed listening to your wisdom. I have been on a spiritual journey since 2020. 💚
Awww thank you so much 😊
I'm so happy when I get to see you in Meditation...
I agree I am placing time before space it is the opposite in reality in regards to transformation. Thanks
😊😊
The best reminder I got today 🥰 Thank you so much ❤
You are so welcome 😊
I agree! When I feel greed it does not feel good. It feels desperate, constricting and agitating. I have given away nearly half of all my belongings- as well as my deceased parents save for a few trinkets, photos, letters and have one piece of their furniture. All my other things are clothing, books and a few necessities. I feel more happy than if I had a whole house full of things!
Contentment though is so rich and it comes in quiet moments-doing dishes, gazing out the window with a cup of tea, sitting with a loved one looking at the stars. Happiness comes from doing Yoga, talking with friends and family and meditating with my Sangha. I do need to start a gratitude practice!
Thank you Venerable Nick for these wonderful videos!
Thanks Nick and have a great positive week from Texas.
Thank you. I have just found your channel today.
I have also recently discovered and attended my local Buddhist Teaching Monastery.
So happy to have started my journey of increased happiness and feel you will complement each other to guide me in my learning and new daily habits.
Wonderful my friend! Welcome to the channel 😊
I lost track of you when you started your American trip. Glad to see you again :) Thank you for sharing your thoughts and your experiences.
You are lovely! Thank you, brother! 🙏 💞
Aww thank you so much 😊
There's actually a third dimension we can live in now with our phones. The present, but not in our present location. I.e consuming media, or discussing things online that have no real bearing on our current situation. I am working on this as much as the other 2 now.
Wishing you perfect peace and contentment, thankyou.
Of course you are spot on in your wisdom. Vipassana meditation will change your life as will a gratitude practice as soon as you wake up in the morning before you even move your body. Thanks for this video, thanks for Nick’s wisdom and give thanks for this day.
Sadhu sadhu thank you so much 😊
Immediately subscribed and I absolutely need guide like you in life
Welcome to the channel my friend 😊
@@NickKeomahavongOfficial thank you looking forward to watching your videos
Knowing the Buddha's Dhamma
Sadhu🙏🏻Sadhu🙏🏻Sadhu🙏🏻
Sadhu sadhu 😊
BREATH... gratitude for the seeing 👀
5:36 : More can also be once having entered the new path and reduced noise and unskilful things, the lack of it sometimes seems to arise as the desire for reintroducing it again...more! Illusions, so I have "fun" with it and it seems I'm in a sort of mental rehab---tie myself down with flowers and dry out from the crazy life taught before haha