WhatsApp Messages of LIFE Lessons

i
WhatsAPP
Messages
Of
Life Lessons

ii
THE GIFT OF DHAMMA EXCELS ALL OTHER GIFTS
Title: WhatsApp Messages of Life Lessons
Author: Oh Teik Bin
Teluk Intan, Perak, Malaysia
Front and back cover by Oh Teik Bin
Email: ohteikbin@gmail.com
Printed for free distribution
Not for sale
This edition (2020) : 1000 copies
This Dhamma Dana literature is a gift, printed solely for free
distribution. Lots of other educational and Dhamma material by
the same author are available at the following Websites:
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www.slideshare.net/ohteikbin/presentations
www.youtube.com/user/ohlifelessons
www.toondoo.com/user/bteikoh http://quora.com/Oh-Teik-Bin
www.scribd.com/teikbin www.twitter.com/TBroh
www.facebook.com/ohteikbin
https://www.wattpad.com/search/Oh%20Teik%20Bin
https://www.pinterest.com/ohteikbin
I have also posted at LinkedIn
No copyright is applicable to this book publication and any
organizations, societies or individuals are welcome to reprint part
or all of it. However, such reprints must be for free distribution. It
would be appreciated if the author could be informed by email of
any reprint.
Printed by: Majujaya Indah Sdn. Bhd (85902-U)
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68000 Selangor Darul Ehsan, Kuala Lumpir, Malaysia
Tel: 03-42916001

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DEDICATION
“WhatsApp Messages of Life Lessons”
is dedicated in ever loving memory of
My late Parents
OH KHAY LENG ( 1924 – 1999 )
LIM SAW GHIM ( 1924 – 2012 )
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
My sincere thanks and gratitude go to the following:
All Sangha and lay members who have taught the sublime
Dhamma and valuable LIFE LESSONS at
Persatuan Buddhist Hilir Perak, Teluk Intan since 1987
All my friends who have in one way or other
contributed to my growth in the Dhamma
This book has been sponsored
for free distribution
from the Proceeds of the Sale of my three
Wisdom From Laughter Books 1, 2 , 3
DEDICATION OF MERITS
May all beings share in the merits of this Dhamma Dana.
May they find happiness, peace and liberation.

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My other Dhamma / Life Lessons books that have been
published for free distribution
1 Dhamma Matters
2 ‘Why Like That One?’
3 Life Lessons with Power Points
4 More Life Lessons to Learn
5 A Collection of LIFE Lessons
6 Thoughtful Twitter Tweets To Treasure
7 Seeing Dhamma Matters
8 100 Instagram Posts Of LIFE Lessons
9 100 Instagram Posts Of LIFE Lessons 2
*************************************************
My Motivational & Humor books for the commercial
market ( royalty earnings of which help in the publishing
and printing of my Dhamma / Life Lessons books
for free distribution )
1 Wisdom From Laughter (Advantage Quest Publications)
2 Wisdom From Laughter 2 (Advantage Quest Publications)
3 Wisdom From Laughter 3 (Advantage Quest Publications)
4 School Stories, Travel Tales, Hotel Happenings
(The Inspiration Hub )
5 Weekly Food For The Mind (The Inspiration Hub)
6 An Essential 2-in-1 Companion (The Inspiration Hub)
7 Another Essential 2-in-1 Companion (The Inspiration Hub)
8 Spreading Humor, Sharing Wisdom (The Inspiration Hub)
9 The Thing Is To Think (The Inspiration Hub)

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Today it is difficult to find a person not on WhatsApp. Many
young and old have in a way become quite addicted to this
free messaging platform. They spend much time sharing
messages, images, pics, videos and making phone calls and
video chats. They are members of WhatsApp groups and
post lots of things in the Groups , some beneficial but more
often non-beneficial ones.
Most of the WhatsApp we receive pertain to entertainment,
sensational news albeit fake ones, health issues, many of
which are questionable ones, controversial political stuff and
many things that titillate the senses – tour places, food,
fashion, sport, movie clips, luxurious lifestyles and so on.
Unwise use of the WhatsApp can lead to many social and
psychological problems. Among extensive users of things
like Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and WhatsApp, some
studies point to increasing cases of negative mental states
developing: unwholesome desires, greed, craving, aversion,
anger, delusion, stress, anxiety, paranoia, obsession and a
host of other psychological or psychiatric disorders.
In this book “WhatsApp Messages of Life Lessons”, I have
put in a number of Dhamma / Life Lessons messages that I
sent periodically to a group of Dhamma students and friends
to help them in mind development – to grow in compassion,
wisdom and mental peace through reflection and
contemplation. Files of Dhamma, motivational, inspirational
stories and humor pieces with life lessons for reflection were
also attached to the WhatsApp messages sent.
May this book help one and all to enrich the mind
with the Dhamma that is important and sublime.
With Metta, January 2020
Bro. Oh Teik Bin ohteikbin@gmail.com
Preface

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CONTENTS
General Information (ii)
Dedication/Acknowledgements (iii)
My Published Books (iv)
Preface (v)
I WhatsApp Messages 1 - 55
II Files of LIFE Lessons 56 - 118

1
1 Dear Brother…
Indeed each day and week passes by
so quickly!
Hope all things with you are going
on peacefully.
Here are my Dhamma thoughts penned for you:
“ The thing we must care for most is the mind.
The mind leads to Dukkha or Peace Sublime.
Have good, wise thoughts and things will turn out fine.
Practice well morality all the time.
Be generous, be righteous and be kind.
Develop Right View, cut the ‘Me, My, Mine’
Walk The 8-Fold Path, it’s the greatest find.
May your joy, peace grow with each Dhamma chime.”
I attach a Humor piece ‘Taxi Meter’ for your reflection.
With Metta, Bro. Oh Teik Bin
2 Dear Brother…
Week One of the New Year
is coming to an end.
Now, what Dhamma things from my wisdom should I pen?
“Constantly learn Dhamma and clearly comprehend.
Be very heedful not to follow the wrong gang.
To all matters that really count you should attend.
With good Dhamma ways, you’d cope well with all at hand.
Watch the mind, reflect, be with the moment, young man!

2
We won’t know how the 8 worldly winds blow and when.
SEEING more Dhamma, there’ll be more mental peace then.
To you my dear friend, Metta and regards I send.
I attach a story ‘Are You Doing Something?’ for reflection.
3 Dear Sister…
So very quickly December has come again.
Passing by inevitably is loss and gain.
Have you embraced wisely feelings of joy and pain?
Can you discern what’s unimportant and what’s main?
We have many a defilement or mental taint.
Noble ones know that the mind we must always train.
One who backslides has truly lived his life in vain.
Do stay righteous and mindful in sunshine or rain!
Let not Loba, Dosa and Moha be your bane.
May your practice of Dhamma never ever wane.
I attach an inspirational file ‘Life Little’s Lessons’.
4 Dear Sister…
How are things getting along and how are
you feeling?
I hope you are coping very well with everything.
Here is some ‘Dhamma Food’ for your reflection:
“ * There are many causes for happiness arising.
* Of the causes, the ‘Dhamma Mind’ truly stands supreme.
* There is this ‘Kammic Factor’, there is no denying.
* We must all keep away from every unwholesome thing.
* The wise ones reach out and cultivate the mind within.
* They ensure that their ‘Store of Merits’ keeps increasing.
* This way, joy, happiness and peace will not stop coming.

3
* The Middle Way should be practiced by every being.
* Let not our Dhamma learning and practice start to sink.”
I attach a motivational piece ‘Everything We Do’.
5 Dear Brother…
Hello there! Good Morning!
Hope you are in the pink.
Below are some Dhamma Couplets for your Reflection:
* A settled mind thinks much more clearly;
problems are then solved more easily.
* Patience is much needed to train the mind
to go beyond conditioning and time.
* Peace develops with less expectation;
be present, be aware, pay attention.
* The greater the mind has contentment,
the closer you're to Enlightenment.
* Walk The Middle Path with determination.
Like Buddha you too will get liberation.
* May inspiring thoughts and advice
help one to be peaceful and wise.
* Counting our Blessings is a wise practice.
It leads to contentment and mental peace.
* May we learn and help spread the Dhamma
to one and all, young and old, near and far.
I attach a File of a Humor piece ‘Last Will’ for reflection.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin

4
6 Dear Sister …
Hello there! Hope you are well and happy!
May you go about your work peacefully.
* Actualize WISDOM points to beat stress and worry.
* Do exercise, rest and eat well and sleep soundly.
* Set wise goals that will not stress you out painfully.
* Don’t compare with others and your mind feels more
free.
* Take life in lighter vein and do laugh heartily.
* Know that wise men embrace all that come,
peacefully.
* Develop Right Understanding – Samma Ditthi.
* See the Truth of Uncertainty very clearly.
* Contemplate on Dhamma Teachings most mindfully.
* Watch the mind to keep it in the NOW constantly.
I attach a motivational piece ’10 Chinese Proverbs with
Wisdom’ for your reflection.
7 Dear Brother…
Hi there!
March is soon coming to an end.
Hope you are in the pink my friend.
Here are some WhatsApp Messages I found to be quite
inspiring or motivating with some good Dhamma in them.
* The most valuable real estate
is the space you occupy in other people’s heart.
* To be rich is not what you have in your bank account,
but what you have in your heart.

5
* Two things to remember in Life:
‘Take care of your thoughts when you’re alone and
take care of your words when you’re with people.”
* If you correct your mind,
the rest of your life will fall into place.
* You can never be poor as long as you give.
* A friendly look, a kindly smile,
one Good Act, Life’s worthwhile.
* Why fit in when you are born to stand out?
* If ‘Plan A’ didn’t work, don’t forget the Alphabet
has 25 more letters.
Stay Cool.
* Simple logic to lead a Happy Life:
Don’t cry for what happened yesterday.
Don’t fear what happens today.
Don’t expect anything from tomorrow.
* If you do not conquer SELF,
you will be conquered by SELF.
I attach a file of Affirmations and Aspirations to actualize in
the mind.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
8 Dear Sister…
Each day zooms by like a super plane!
Peace and happiness hope you will gain.
Here are some Dhamma things once again.

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* So ignorant of the way all things really are,
worldlings spin in the wheel of samsaric dukkha.
* Of utmost importance is mind training
to lessen misery and suffering.
* Practice ardently the Noble Eightfold Path
to a most peaceful mind and a joyful heart.
* At the end of the day what matters truly
is whether we’ve lived wisely and righteously.
* DANA, SILA, BHAVANA we must practice
all the time.
Only then will there grow joy, peace and wisdom in
the mind.
I attach a story ‘A Little Mouse Story’ for your reflection.
9 Dear Brother…
It is time to share Dhamma once more.
Hope all that’s great awaits you in store.
May your Dhamma understanding soar!
“Before long, half a year will so quickly go past.
Fools keep chasing sensual delights that’ll fade off fast.
So transient are material things, they do not last.
Beware, don’t fall into the trap of greed and lust.
Guard the sense doors, watch the mind, let go, this you must.
Wise ones pay good attention to Dhamma-based tasks.
They sacrifice worldly fun so binding and vast.

7
They know that conditioned things will certainly pass.
They SEE that Dhamma matters cannot be outclassed.
Walk well The Noble Path before you turn to dust!”
I attach an Inspirational piece “A New Day’ for reflection
10 Dear Sister…
How have you been getting on weekly and
daily?
Stay steady as time zooms by so very
quickly.
“Challenges and tests we face inevitably.
From birth to death DIS-EASE can arise certainly.
The Dhamma can help us to cope most peacefully.
Wise ones practice spirituality constantly.
In the mind, body and speech they live righteously.
They without fail give, help and reach out sincerely.
They train hard to still and watch the mind mindfully.
With such good practice, they live life meaningfully.”
I attach a Humor piece ‘The Braggart’ with reflections.
With Metta, Bro.Oh Teik Bin
11 Dear Brother …
Hi there!
How are things as time passes by inevitably?
Hope you are managing Ok to a good degree.
May you be well, healthy with a mind
clear and steady.
“Wise Reflection upon a good story
can teach us so much about Reality.
Seeing Dhamma we can be more stress-free.

8
Worldly things are then coped with peacefully.”
I attach a story “The Marble Statues and The Floor Tiles”
with reflections in our quest for Wisdom.
12 Dear Sister…
Invasion of Mara causes us much Dukkha.
May peace be with you whether you’re
near or far.
I would like to share with you
some great sayings on ‘Solitude’:
* Alone let him constantly meditate in solitude on that
which is salutary for his soul, for he who meditates in
solitude attains supreme bliss.
Guru Nanak (1469 –1539) founder of Sikhism
* Cultivate solitude and quiet and a few sincere friends,
rather than mob merriment, noise and thousands of nodding
acquaintances.
William Powell (1892 – 1984 ) American actor
* The best thinking has been done in solitude. The worst has
been done in turmoil.
Thomas Alva Edison (1847-1931) American inventor
* The monotony and solitude of a quiet life stimulates the
creative mind.
Albert Einstein (1879-1955) German-Swiss-U.S. scientist
* The more powerful and original a mind, the more it will
incline towards the religion of solitude.
Aldous Huxley (1894-1963) British author.

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* Conversation enriches the understanding; but solitude is
the school of genius.
Edward Gibbon (1739 – 1794 ) British historian
I attach a Humor piece “Love Struck Child” for reflection.
13 Dear Brother…
You know, what matters very much is
health and peace in body and mind.
May great Blessings be upon you to have
this priceless wealth all the time.
I would like to pen my thoughts on
“Counting Our Blessings”
* ‘Count all your Blessings, not all your troubles,’
wise ones say.
Do we realize so many good things have come our way?
* Countless are those whose living conditions are so very
bad.
We are truly so fortunate …we so often complain yet.
* Countless are those afflicted by sickness and disease.
We are of quite good health feeling more comfort and ease.
* Countless are those lacking any proper education.
We are educated … we ought to show appreciation.
* Countless are those in places of war and strife.
We’re at lands where we can live a peaceful life.
* Countless are those who suffer greatly from Nature’s
fury.
We’re so blessed to be free from many a calamity.
* Countless are those whose minds have little clarity.
We’re so blessed to be able to think quite clearly.
* Countless are those with little or no knowledge of the
Dhamma.

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We’re so very blessed to have Dhamma and lessen our
Dukkha.
* Reflecting mindfully, may we be ardent in Dhamma
practice,
a practice that will lead us all to ultimate Nibbanic Bliss.
I attach “Conquer Your Fear With Action” for reflection.
14 Dear Sister…
Hello there! Good Morning!
Hope you are getting along fine,
both in the body and the mind.
Being PRESENT most of the time
will lead to a peace so sublime.
You’ll then be at your mental prime.
I would like to share a piece of Humor with Dhamma
reflections :
A New Look
A middle aged woman has a heart attack and is taken to the
hospital. While on the operating table she has a near-death
experience. During that experience she sees her guardian
angel and asks if this is her time. The angel says no and
explains that she has another 30-40 years to live.
Upon her recovery she decides to just stay in the hospital for
a few more days and have a facelift, liposuction and a
tummy tuck. She even has someone come in and change her
hair color. She figures since she's got another 30 or 40 years
she might as well make the most of it. She walks out the
hospital after the last operation and is killed by an ambulance
speeding up to the hospital.
She arrives in heaven again, sees her guardian angel and says,
"I thought you said I had another 30-40 years!!"

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The angel replies, "Sorry. I didn't recognize you."
Reflections
When one cannot accept the process of ageing and the
natural accompanying changes, one may resort to all sorts of
foolish ways to maintain the young look ... and this can lead
to grave consequences.
I attach a file of “Inspiring Thoughts” for your reflection.
15 Dear Brother…
Good morning!
Time indeed flies!
Hope you are coping well in your life of busyness.
Here’s wishing you peacefulness and a state of wellness.
Many think sensory pleasure is true happiness.
This is not so, you’ll realize it through Right Mindfulness.
Today I would like to reflect upon this:
“What makes one truly peaceful and happy?
* He’s cut all forms of attachment or greed.
Greed hinders peacefulness of mind indeed.
* He is liberated from anger and hate.
Dosa is a great suffering mental state.
* He practices calm patience all the time.
Forbearing and unruffled is his mind.
* He’s virtuous following laws of morality.
He’s free of regret, remorse and guilt mentally.

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* He’s a peaceful heart and mind of contentment.
He’s nearer to the Goal of Enlightenment.
* He reaches out and gives with an open heart.
For happiness this is a meaningful path.
* He’s able to go into states of stillness.
This generates mental peace and happiness.
* He feels love within and to all others he sends Metta.
This is a great way to lessen suffering or Dukkha.
* He has shed or crushed self-pride and ego.
He sails so very smoothly in Life’s flow.
* His mind is very heedful, mindful and watchful.
This mental training’s lofty, so very rightful.
* He knows how to seek refuge in his Home within.
For inner peace this is a most important thing.
* He has and displays great wisdom needless to say.
Steadfast in the mind he is at peace come what may.
I attach a story “Just A Visitor” for your reflection.
Stay Healthy. Be happy.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
16 Dear Sister…
Good Morning. Happy Freedom Day!
Days and nights soon pass by us inevitably.
From time to time we need to sit back silently.
Have we breached any of our precepts heedlessly?

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To the best that we can, have we lived mindfully?
Has our compassion for others grown steadily?
Has our wisdom bloomed walking The Way ardently?
Such introspection we must do most constantly.
I attach a Humor piece “The Eccentric Interviewer” with life
lessons for your reflection.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
17 Dear Brother …
It's Friday once more!
Is there much in store?
How's everything with you?
Intensive and rigorous work?
Do take good care of yourself.
This weekend ... it is a long weekend of 4 days.
Keep your mind cheerful, bright and clear, haze or no haze!
Here are some Dhamma thoughts for you:
"Fun-No Fun, Gain-No Gain, Pain-No Pain…we’re in
Samsara.
Strive on mindfully in The Middle Way to end Dukkha.
Practice diligently Dana, Sila and Bhavana.
With patience and perseverance we will conquer Mara."
I attach a File “The Buddha Says…” for your reflection.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
18 Dear Sister …
Hope you are feeling very good.
digesting some good mental food.

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Learning Dhamma I know you would.
You’ll be on the Way to Sainthood!
“It is a challenge to STILL the mind.
This is effort of the noblest kind.
For this, wise ones will set aside time.
Priceless treasures the STILL mind will find.
PEACE comes SEEING there’s no Me or Mine.”
I attach a story “A Wise Old Man” for your reflection.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
19 Dear Brother …
Hope all things are going on for you well.
From your speech and action
people can tell.
"It’s a Blessing to be well in mind
and body.
We will then feel more at ease, peaceful and happy.
It’s a Blessing to have a mind that’s serene and clear.
We will then have more and more wisdom approaching near.
It’s a Blessing to have loving-kindness growing within.
We will then feel happy with everyone and everything.
Wise ones make Dhamma practice a most important thing.
Blessings come when Dhamma is realized in our being.”
I attach a Humor piece “Simple Test” for your reflection,
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin

15
20 Dear Sister …
Hope this WhatsApp Message
finds you very peaceful.
Let us reflect on the 4 Bases of
Spiritual Power
Iddhipada : The 4 Bases of mental
/ spiritual power
1 Chanda : Liking / Interest / Wish /
Desire to act
“A strong interest or liking for the Dhamma
is a Blessing.
This is needed to develop states of peace
and well-being.”
2 Citta : Contemplation / Thought
“It’s Noble to carry out Dhamma contemplation.
It helps pave the Way to peace, bliss and liberation.”
3 Viriya : Energy / Effort
“Wise is the man who exerts energy in Dhamma practice.
Such effort will reap rewards, he will attain joy, peace and
bliss.”
4 Vimansa : Insightful Investigation
“Dana, Sila, Bhavana and Vimansa
will lead us to cross the Sea of Samsara.
I attach a File “8 Favorite PATIENCE Quotes
for your reflection.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin

16
21 Dear Brother …
How are you getting along daily?
My Metta to you most sincerely.
Here’s some “Dhamma Food’ for
your reflection.
* Understand the reality of things and life’s
true meaning.
Then you’ll be able to cope better with many a thing.
* When you set goals that are unrealistic,
you will face more Dukkha that’s hard to beat.
* With other people, stop measuring and comparing.
Oftentimes this leads to lots of mental suffering.
* Wise ones embrace inevitable things most peacefully.
This way they shut the door from needless pain and
misery.
* Plan and organize what you do wisely.
You will then go through life much more smoothly.
I attach a File of a story “Forgetting the Main Thing”
for your reflection.
22 Dear Sister …
A very peaceful and happy morning!
Friday comes again so fast like lightning.
Time indeed zooms by just like
an eye blink.

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My metta to you for your well-being.
Here are my Dhamma thoughts for your reflection:
* Ignorant ones look for fun, pleasure and thrill without.
Wise ones KNOW true happiness lies within beyond doubt.
* Dhamma practice needs patience and determination.
The ultimate Goal is true Peace and Liberation.
I attach a file ‘Affirmations and Aspirations’ for reflection.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
23 Dear Brother…
Hope the week has been peaceful for you.
May you grow steadily in Right View.
For this week, I’d like to pen these
Dhamma teachings:
"It's a fact that all conditioned things will come to pass.
The Awakened Ones Know of a state that truly lasts.
All sentient beings come and then go, from 'dust to dust'.
To know Dukkha, its cause, the Way to its end, we must!
Strive to eradicate delusion, hatred and lust.
This work is each and every one’s most important task.”
I attach a Humor piece “Calling A Monkey…”
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
24 Dear Sister …
Hi there, it's morning here bright
and sunny.
Hope things are great for you
and family.
Regards and Metta to you all from me.
Do reflect on the following Dhamma matters:
* 'Wise ones embrace WHAT IS, most mindfully.

18
Unwise ones suffer thinking WHAT SHOULD BE.
* Wise ones know that NOW is the Reality.
Unwise ones CANNOT SEE Uncertainty.
* Wise ones know that it's futile to worry.
Unwise ones fear so unnecessarily.
* Wise ones practice the Dhamma constantly.
Unwise ones live their lives most foolishly.'
I attach a file “Laugh and De-Stress” for reflection.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
25 Dear Brother…
Hello my friend wherever you may be...
Rome, London, Amsterdam or
gay Paree
I'm sure there is so much for you to see.
There's also much to reflect mindfully.
Dhamma is everywhere you know surely.
Over Chinatown food or just Maggi,
remain contented, peaceful and happy.
Be it stunning sights or terrific tea,
enjoy it but attach NOT greedily.
Metta to you and all the family.
I attach a motivation file “Aspirations To Make”.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
26 Dear Sister …
Hope you are coping with your work
and study peacefully.
Wise Ones ponder on these mindfully:

19
1 Do I live my life meaningfully?
2 Do I practice good morality?
3 Do I give, help or serve constantly?
4 Have I grown in Dhamma steadily?
5 Do I meditate regularly?
Here are some Dhamma couplets for your reflection :
* Developing Compassion and Wisdom
is the Way to Peace and Enlightenment
* When we live mindfully the Dhamma Way,
mental peace will be with us come what may.
* True Peace and Happiness lies in the mind.
Meditate to realize this Truth Sublime.
I attach a file “Inspirational Sayings” for contemplation.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
27 Dear Brother…
Joy and Peace be upon you always!
May you always take righteous pathways.
Here is some Dhamma ‘food’ for reflection:
* Anytime and anywhere one can be assailed
by much Dukkha.
Seeing this, walk The Middle Way to stay peaceful in
Samsara.
* The Path to the Deathless lies in Mindfulness.
In it is true Freedom, Peace and Happiness.
* When people are more compassionate and wise,
the world will be more happy, peaceful and nice.
* Words of Wisdom should always be pondered on.
Bits of Wisdom can be realized before long.
I attach a Story “The Drowning Man” for reflection.

20
To you my thoughts of Metta.
May you have lots of Sukkha.
Regards,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
28 Dear Sister …
Time really flies and it's Friday
once more.
Hope many good things for you are
in store.
Here are some Dhamma couplets for you to reflect upon:
1 Problems are part and parcel of living.
Coping, responding wisely...that's the thing.
2 When we know how to wisely count our Blessings,
we remove from the mind many negative things.
3 We often hear but do not listen; we often look but do not
see.
Do train the mind well in Meditation for Wisdom and Clarity.
I attach a piece of Humor “I’ll Do Anything” for reflection.
29 Dear Brother …
How are you getting along?
Smile, let all your worries be gone!
1 'Know Dhamma, Make Dhamma Known,' the Wise advise.
This is the Path where profound happiness lies.
2 Does our mortal life really end when we die?
No, no...we will be saying many a Goodbye.
3 Receiving a teaching, check it out wisely.

21
We can fall into DELUSION easily.'
I attach a Motivation piece “Light of Wisdom” for reflection.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
30 Dear Sister …
Time can seem to be dragging or
so fast moving.
Whatever let not we lapse in Dhamma
learning.
Hope peace and happiness suffuse all your being.
One of the Sublime States is Loving-kindness
or Metta.
The others are Karuna, Mudita and Upekkha.
The Divine Abode of Compassion is called Karuna.
Sympathetic Joy is what we all know as Mudita.
Equanimity or tranquility is Upekkha.
The benefits of Metta Bhavana are real and many.
Metta is the great antidote for the hateful and angry.
To oneself, others and society, Metta brings harmony.
Do keep on practicing Metta Meditation mindfully.
You will certainly live much more happily and peacefully.!
I attach a File “Mindful Reflections On a Vacation”
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
31 Dear Brother …
* The mind needs to be trained in
mindfulness.
It will then attain greater
peacefulness.
* Mental calm is certainly an important state.

22
Watch the mind, free it from greed, delusion and hate.
* See that craving causes suffering again and again.
When craving falls, wisdom rises lessening so much
pain.
* The peace of Dhamma realization endures in the
heart.
To attain this sublime state strive on in the Middle
Path.
( The Middle Path or Way refers to the Noble
Eightfold Path. )
I attach a Story “The Oak Tree and The Reeds”.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
32 Dear Sister …
Greetings and wishes to you
once again!
Hope you’re facing little Dukkha or pain.
For this week, I would to pen my thoughts
on ‘Conditioning’.
“ We are all creatures of habits and conditioning.
We’ve been conditioned in our attitudes and thinking.
Conditioning can bring about a good or bad thing.
A bad thing has its roots in greed, ego and hating.
This will cause us or others much pain and suffering.
Dhamma practice can cut the bad conditioning link.
To keep the good and wipe out the bad conditioning,
be determined and diligent in the following:
1 Learn and understand the Dhamma constantly.
2 Never fail to stop your deed of charity.
3 Keep your practice of morality strongly.
4 Contemplate on the Dhamma unceasingly.

23
5 Do good, shun evil, train the mind mindfully.
6 Send Metta to one and all regularly.
7 Set aside time to meditate patiently.”
You might want to check out the Video Clip “The
Conditioned Elephant” at the following:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8E6vFwGiI0
I attach a Humor piece “The Patients” for reflection.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
33 Dear Brother …
I hope you are coping well with all your
projects and study.
Despite your ‘busyness’ you must rest
and sleep adequately.
Have proper nutrition and exercise to live healthily.
To feel good, spice the mind with humor and do laugh
heartily.
Doing a kind deed or charity brings good undoubtedly.
Meditation and reflection strengthen the mind certainly.
Metta Bhavana should be ardently practiced constantly.
It’s the Dhamma that enables one to live meaningfully.
I attach a File “Wise Words To Ponder On”.
34 Dear Sister …
Hope you and your family are well
and happy.
May your good Dhamma practice grow
most steadily.

24
Here are some inspiring thoughts for reflection.
* Anger is a condition in which
the tongue works faster than the mind.
* You can't change the past,
but you can ruin the present by worrying over the future.
* The real measure of a man's wealth
is what he has invested in eternity.
* If you fill your heart with regrets of yesterday and the worries
of tomorrow, you have no today to be thankful for.
* The choice you make today will usually affect tomorrow.
* If anyone speaks badly of you, live so none will believe it.
* Harsh words break no bones but they do break hearts.
* We take for granted the things that we should be
giving thanks for.
* Love is the only thing that can be divided without
being diminished.
* For every minute you are angry with someone, you lose 60
seconds of happiness that you can never get back.
* Do what you can, for who you can, with what you have, and
where you are.
Unknown Author
I attach a a File “One Day At A Time” for reflection.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
35 Dear Brother …
Hope good Blessings have come
your way.
Strive on in the Dhamma each day.
All conditioned things arise and fall away.
Anicca’s a fact, all come under its sway.
‘Do not crave, attach and cling’, the Wise Ones say.
Be with the NOW to keep suffering at bay.
Watch the mind moment to moment of the day.

25
Wait not to learn Dhamma coz you’ll soon turn gray.
Reflect on this: No ‘I’, “me’, ‘Mine’, ‘You’ or ‘They’.
For true peace, the EGO or SELF you must slay.
Your speech, acts and thoughts …attention you must pay.
Walk The Middle Way and you will be OK.
Joy, Peace, Bliss and Wisdom will then come your way.
Before long, you’ll attain Nibbana, Yeah Yeah!
I attach a Story “The Rabbi and The Soap Maker”.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
36 Dear Sister …
Hi there! Sukhi Hotu!
For this Friday I would like to pen my
Dhamma thoughts on
“The Fool and The Wise”
* The Fool lives a worldly life thinking beyond death
there’s nothing.
The Wise investigates and KNOWS death does not end
everything.
* The Fool does not believe in The Law of Cause and
Effect.
The Wise SEES that ‘What goes around comes around’
is a fact.
* The Fool is self-centered and does not give or help the
needy.
The Wise is open-hearted, in Dana he’s always ready.

26
* The Fool is concerned only with pleasures of the body
and mind.
The Wise lives a righteous life and develops his mind all
the time.
* The Fool lives an unwholesome life, averse to the
Dhamma.
The Wise loves and practices the Dhamma to end Dukkha.
I attach a file “Some Inspirational Food” for reflection.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
37 Dear Brother …
Good Morning!
Hope you are well and peaceful.
I have two pieces of Dhamma lessons
for you to think about.
*Dhamma practice needs great determination.
Beware of Mara’s many a temptation.
Dana, Sila, Bhavana need attention.
Reflect and actualize this Aspiration:
“May I strive on the Path for Liberation!”
***********************************
*Viriya in Pali refers to Energy.
Viriya is a Perfection or Parami.
Be mindful, put in strong Effort, don’t be lazy.
Do not let Mara conquer you so easily.
The Noble Ones practice Dhamma diligently

27
May you practice and SEE the Dhamma most clearly.
I attach a Humor piece” “The Three Wishes’ for reflection.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
38 Dear Sister …
Here’s sending you my Metta,
best regards and wishes for your well-being.
Do remember that constant
Dhamma practice is a most important thing.
In this message, I would like to write about Introspection.
Why is introspection important? Researchers have shown
that we think more than 50,000 thoughts per day, of which
more than half are negative and more than 90% are just
repeats from the day before (Wood, 2013). If you don’t make
the time and effort to refocus your mind on the positive
through introspection, you won’t give yourself the
opportunity to grow and develop.
Enhancing our ability to understand ourselves and our
motivations and to learn more about our own values helps us
take the power away from the distractions of our modern,
fast-paced lives and instead refocus on fulfillment (Wood,
2013). This is important for one’s spiritual growth.
Here are 2 questions for self-reflection or introspection
together with my Dhamma thoughts in poetic form:
* Am I using my time wisely?
Days and nights zoom by so quickly.
My end can come so suddenly.

28
I need to grow spiritually.
It’s Dhamma that counts finally.
* Am I taking for granted anything?
I really have so many a Blessing.
Health, care, love and comfortable living…
True gratitude I must imbue within.
The Middle Way, it’s an important thing.
All the best in life’s so many tests!
I attach a file “Our Greatest Wealth” for you.
With Mettta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
39 Dear Brother …
I hope that all things are going on for you
most smoothly.
Contemplation on Dhamma matters
matters certainly.
The mind will then develop love, peace and wisdom quickly.
Do contemplate on the Four Noble Truths most constantly.
This, with the practice of Dana, Sila and Samadhi
will lead us to the end of suffering and misery.
Here is an introspective question and my Dhamma thoughts
upon reflection on the question:
Question: “WHAT WORRIES ME MOST ABOUT THE
FUTURE?”
‘The future is an unknowable uncertainty.
Wise ones know that it’s foolish and futile to worry.
Live every day mindfully, righteously and wisely.

29
Then the mind will attain joy, peace and tranquility.’
I attach a file “Recipe For A Happy Year” for reflection.
With Much Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
40 Dear Sister …
When one practices the Dhamma constantly,
he will live his life so much more peacefully.
Isn’t this important to everybody?
Let not Mara conquer you mercilessly!
For this message I would like
to reflect on 3 more Introspection Questions.
* How much worldly things have I let go?
Material things don’t last in Life’s flow.
The Dhamma to practice I must KNOW.
Bad deeds will send me to states of woe.
Patient perseverance I must show.
* Am I letting matters stress me out?
Why are some having undue stress?
Not understanding Life’s true quest,
the ignorant strives to be best.
To beat stress, give more, attach less.
* Who am I, really?
Just Rupa and Nama – body and mind.
Body will die, mind goes on over time.
So train the mind to cross Samsara’s line.
You’ll then attain joy, peace and bliss sublime.

30
I attach “Seeing The Bright Side of Things” for reflection.
With Mettta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
41 Dear Brother …
Verse 62: The Dhammapada
"I have sons, I have wealth";
with this (feeling of attachment)
the fool is afflicted. Indeed, he himself
is not his own, how can sons
and wealth be his?
* Empty into the world we come, empty we go.
Craving and attachment brings Dukkha, wise ones know.
* Impermanent are all conditioned things, it’s ANICCA.
Things arise, then they fall away, this is Truth or
Sacca.
* All worldly possessions are not truly our own.
It’s a matter of time before we walk alone.
* It is Kamma and Dhamma that matters ultimately.
Seeing this, the Wise strives to live virtuously and wisely.
Verse 290: The Dhammapada
“If by giving up small pleasures great happiness is to be
found, the wise should give up small pleasures seeing (the
prospect of) great happiness.”
* Sacrifice is needed in the Spiritual Path.
It’s urgent to train the mind and open the heart.
* Foolish ones think worldly pleasures are a real gain.

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Wise ones know unchecked sensual pursuits lead to pain.
* We must reflect most constantly on the Sublime Dhamma.
True Dhamma will lead us to the Cessation of Dukkha.
* When we see clearly transience and Life’s uncertainty,
we’ll give up more worldly things for spirituality.
I attach a File “Affirmations and Aspirations”.
All the best. Take care.
With much Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
42 Dear Sister …
Hello there!
Joy, Peace and Metta to you and your family.
May your Dhamma Practice keep growing
steadily.
Great Blessings will then come to you
naturally.
Here are some Dhamma thoughts for your consideration:
* Keep your mind and heart free from all Anger.
Tell yourself ANGER is a real danger.
* Keep your mind and heart from futile worry.
The Dhamma Way beats others certainly.
* Live very simply, expect very little, give much.
The peacefulness this will bring is incredibly large.
* Fill your life with Metta and Karuna.
You will then feel the decline of Dukkha.

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* Forget self, think of others, do as you would be done.
This great Dhamma Teaching has come from many a
Wise One.
I attach a File “Stress Busters” for your reflection.
With Metta,
Bro Oh Teik Bin
43 Dear Brother …
Hope your mind is cheerful, peaceful
and bright!
May thoughts that sail through your
mind be alright!
May your physical self be fit and
energetic!
May your Dhamma practice grow and grow to work ‘magic’!
I would like to pen the following Dhamma thoughts for your
reflection:
THE DELUDED ONES: Views and Attitude
* Happiness is ….
Fantastic Food,
A Gorgeous Look,
Lots of Money,
Much Luxury.
* Life is short…
Enjoy the NICE!
Who cares if the NICE is VICE?
* What matters is more Excitement!

33
Who cares if there’s Enlightenment?
THE WISE ONES: Views and Attitude
* Happiness is ….
Simplicity,
A mind that’s free,
A heart that’s kind,
A Mindful Mind.
* Life is short…
Must do things wise.
Bad ones will pay a high price.
* What matters is Mental Development.
You’ll then have mental peace and fulfillment.
I attach a Story “A Lesson From Disabled People”.
With Manifold Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
44 Dear Sister …
Hello, Good Morning!
I trust you are keeping well and doing
very fine.
Zooming by so very quickly is this thing
called ‘Time’.
Let me write on “Developing a Positive Mind”.
* Learn to SEE things as they are truly.
* Practice Generosity constantly.
* Observe Morality sincerely.

34
* Reach out and serve most conscientiously.
* Spread Loving-Kindness consistently.
* Act to forgive compassionately.
* Keep Noble friendship very strongly.
* Set time for Meditation daily.
* Be with the Present NOW steadily.
* Watch the running mind persistently.
* Let it go, let it be readily.
* Live by the good Dhamma mindfully.
In this way the mind will be happy!
I attach an Inspirational piece “Things To Remember”.
With Metta,
Bro.Oh Teik Bin
45 Dear Brother …
Hope you are able to handle well all
the stressful situations in your working
life.
Here is a write-up on Stress penned in
poetic couplet form:
* Stress comes when one does not SEE things as they are.
It is Dhamma Practice that will slay Dukkha.
* Stress comes when one craves for many things worldly.
Through Vipassana one can SEE this clearly.
* Stress comes when one is overwhelmed by clinging.
A Letting-Go leads to mental well-being.
* Stress comes when one pursues a most unwise quest.
One who SEES Anicca KNOWS clearly what’s best.

35
* Stress comes when there’s expectation in the mind.
Wise ones KNOW that things don’t always turn out fine.
* Stress comes when one wants to achieve and attain.
Realize that there’s loss and gain, pleasure and pain.
* Stress comes when there is a lack of sleep and rest.
Overworking body or mind brings a mess.
* To conquer stress and lessen mental DIS-EASE,
the Dhamma Way is the best, to say the least.
I attach a Humor piece “Getting Even” for your reflection.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
46 Dear Sister …
Hello Dhamma Friend! Sukhi Hotu!
Hope you are feeling simply fine
in body and mind.
Hope you are reflecting well
on the Dhamma Sublime.
Ever wondered why there’s so much disparity?
Ever wondered how we must chart our destiny?
* Why do some live in hunger and misery
while others bask in riches and luxury?
* What has brought some people ravishing beauty
while others are born so hideous and ugly?
* Why are some so sickly, meeting with their ends so

36
quickly
while others are so blessed with good health, living
happily?
* Why are some endowed with an intelligence so terrific
while the imbecile and moronic live a life so tragic?
* Why do some die in a sudden and violent way
while others live peacefully till they pass away?
* Why do more and more suffer mental illnesses and
affliction?
Besides the usual reasons, to what else must we give
attention?
* Why do good people sometimes suffer so much
while bad ones sometimes enjoy the ‘lucky’ touch?
* Why do some transit at an age so very young
while others live to a ripe age before they’re done?
* What constitutes true Happiness and Peace?
How can we live so that Dukkha will cease?
* Can we afford not to reflect, search and find out
what the purpose and meaning of life is about?
* Answers to Life’s mystery lie in the profound Dhamma.
In this quest, are you wise enough to go deep and far?
* There’s a Way out of the pain of Samsara.
It’s The Middle Way, the Way to Nibbana.

37
I attach file “Great Buddhist Sayings” for you to ponder on.
Stay peaceful. Take care. Have a meaningful weekend.
With Much Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
47 Dear Brother …
Hope this message finds you well and
peaceful.
Do remember to try to be always heedful and mindful.
In this way, you are more likely to be trouble-free.
Your mind will also grow stronger very steadily.
In this message, I would like to share with you the thoughts
and answers I penned to a Quora question posted some time
ago:
“What are life Lessons and what are some
good ones that have benefited you?”
To me, Life Lessons are great lessons / messages / advice
given by spiritual masters /teachers or good motivators or
virtuous happy experienced people that have helped to
develop the mind to be more peaceful, happy, calm,
wise/insightful into the true nature of things. Life Lessons
help us to rid the mind of the defilements that cause much
pain, sorrow, grief and suffering. These defilements include
Greed, Covetousness, Anger, Ill-will, Hatred, Ego, Delusion
and Fear.
Some good LIFE Lessons I have learnt and benefited include
the following:

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1 All conditioned things are impermanent. Don’t attach,
grasp and cling.
2 Be patient. All things will come to pass.
3 What goes around comes around. Good begets good, bad
begets bad.
4 Conquer Greed by Generosity, Charity and Service.
5 Conquer Hatred by Loving-Kindness.
6 Conquer Delusion by developing Wisdom.
7 All are subjected to the 8 Worldly Winds of:
Pleasure and Pain
Gain and Loss
Praise and Blame
Honor and Ill-Fame
Learn to embrace whatever comes mindfully, peacefully
and wisely.
8 Train the mind to be in the NOW. Don’t dwell in the
Past or worry about the uncertain Future.
9 Live a virtuous, moral life for the mind to be free of
regret, remorse, guilt, worry and fear.
10 Meditate to still the mind to SEE the true nature of all
things.
I attach a File “Rules For Being Human” for reflection.
All the best.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
48 Dear Sister …
Hello Good Morning!
Here’s wishing you a joyful and
most peaceful time.
May calm and tranquility settle in
your mind.

39
May your physical and mental health remain fine.
May wisdom grow reflecting on each Dhamma Chime.
I pen here 3 jokes with reflections in couplet form to help
brighten your day and keep negativity at bay:
1 Dead Mother-In-Law?
Ah Goo’s mother-in-law passed away. He approached her
coffin to have a look at her body. Upon looking at the dead
body, Ah Goo began to cry. His wife was very puzzled and
she gave her husband a pinch on the arm and said, “Why are
you crying? All along you had never liked my mother!”
Ah Goo, still sobbing replied, “I know. As I was viewing her
body, I thought I saw her move!”
Towards all one should not bear ill-will or enmity.
Who is without any fault … think of this seriously.
2 Absent Minded Father
A husband brought a child home from the kindergarten. He
asked the wife, “Our child has been crying the whole way
home. Is he sick or something?”
“No,” the wife replied. “He was just trying to tell you he
isn’t our little Johnny.”
The absent-minded or unmindful person can bring suffering.
Train the mind to be alert, careful and mindful of everything.
3 Birth Control Pills
A baby who had just been born looked perfectly normal but
he was laughing as if he were crazy. The doctors and nurses
started to examine the little baby in front of the worried
parents. The baby kept on laughing; his tiny fists were all
closed and tears of laughter were rolling down from his eyes.

40
One at a time, a pediatrician unfolded the tiny fingers to
check if his hand was alright.
The parents were most embarrassed when the hand of the
baby upon being opened revealed a few birth control pills!
In life there will always be uncertainty.
Knowing this the mind can remain more steady.
I attach two more Jokes: “1 Dreaming; 2 Wife’s Birthday” .
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
49 Dear Brother …
Hope you are healthy in body and mind.
All sorts of thoughts in the mind pop up
all the time.
With Right Effort train ardently
the ‘monkey mind’.
Dispel all thoughts within of the unwholesome kind.
Bar unskillful thoughts entering the mind that’s thine.
You’ve good thoughts in the mind of the Dhamma Sublime.
Keep nurturing them, they are a true ‘Treasure Mine’
Invite more Dhamma matters that’re so good and fine.
Before long you’ll realize a Peace and Bliss that shine.
I attach a Story “The Burden of Hatred” for reflection.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin

41
50 Dear Sister …
Hope all is fine with you!
I would like to pen some of my Dhamma
thoughts on “Cutting Worry”.
* The more you understand and SEE the nature of the mind,
the better you’ll cope with the stress that comes from time to
time.
* When the fact of ANICCA is seen in the mind clearly,
growing much less and less will be thoughts of undue
worry.
* Good Dhamma contemplation helps ‘Letting Go’.
The mind will be at greater ease with Life’s flow.
* Jumping to the future or going to the past
can drive the mind to negativity so fast.
* Watching the ‘monkey’ mind more and more constantly,
will help dispel negative thoughts most certainly.
* Always doing things for the ‘Self’ or ‘Me’
is not practicing well spiritually.
Dana is an Antidote for worry.
* When life is lived with good morality,
your mind can function much more peacefully.
* Practicing well Metta and Vipassana
will help rid the mind of all forms of Dukkha.

42
Attached is a file “Success – Inspirational Words”.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
51 Dear Brother …
Week after week zooms by so very
quickly.
Hope you’re keeping well and living
peacefully.
I would like to pen my thoughts on ‘Being at Peace’,
* The Dhamma will help us to be at peace within.
Isn’t this a thing to treasure in our living?
Developing our mind is life’s wisest meaning.
Practice the Noble 8-Fold Path without stopping.
* Being at peace with others is an important need.
The Teachings of The Buddha we must constantly heed.
Radiating loving-kindness to all is a good deed.
Good relationship with all is a Blessing indeed.
* Being kind to our environment brings us peace.
Exploiting the environment we must all cease.
Do protect our environment to say the least.
A good environment will lead to greater ease.
Here’s sending you thoughts of joy, love and peace.
I attach a File “The ‘B’ Attitudes for your reflection.
Sukhi Hotu!.

43
52 Dear Sister …
Hello there, Friday is with all of us
once again!
Hope you’re coping well with loss
and gain, pleasure and pain…
One thing to remember …the mind we must always train.
I would like to pen some thoughts on ‘Wisdom’ or ‘Panna .
“ Wisdom in the mind SEES clearly things as they truly are.
Wisdom leads one to cross Samsara and end all Dukkha.”
A Man of Wisdom
* lives a life of exemplary morality
knowing Virtue’s the base of spirituality.
* is calm, peaceful and happy
knowing what Life means really.
* shows great Metta, Karuna, Mudita and Upekkha
knowing the Divinity of the Brahma-Vihara.
* does the things that matter ultimately
knowing mind training is what counts truly.
* does wholesome Kamma and learns the true Dhamma
knowing this finally leads to Nibbana.
* practices Dana and serving others in need
knowing this helps us conquer our ego and greed.
* practices non-attachment and ‘letting go’

44
knowing this brings true joy and peace in Life’s flow.
* strives to realize Dukkha, Anicca and Anatta
knowing that this is the Way to ending all Dukkha.
* meditates most constantly and ardently
knowing this is a key to live blissfully.
* lives a life of focus and right mindfulness
knowing that this is a must for peacefulness.
* walks most diligently The Noble Eightfold Way
knowing this Way leads to Nirvana’s Endless Day.
I attach a file ‘Parable of the Poisoned Arrow ’for your
reflection.
Here’s Wishing You a Very Happy and Peaceful Wesak!
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
53 Dear Brother …
Good Morning!
Hope things are going on fine for you.
Here are my Dhamma thoughts in
this message:
“Where can we find true freedom, happiness and peace?
It’s within our mind we find profound peace and bliss.
Sensual delights, joy and happiness are not lasting.
They ultimately lead to dukkha or suffering.

45
Noble ones pursue the worthy goal of peace in the mind
by practicing dana, sila, bhavana all the time.
Wise ones cast the worldly non-essentials away.
They know it’s Dhamma that matters at the end of the day.
Let’s all strive diligently to be Awake to end Dukkha
by walking The Middle Way that frees us all from Samsara.”
I attach a Humor piece “The Pay Roll Clerk” for reflection.
Have a happy and peaceful weekend.
Stay calm, healthy and mindful my friend!
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
54 Dear Sister …
So like a flash of lightning time simply
zooms by.
That all conditioned things will pass,
we can’t deny.
All sentient beings when born must age and then die.
Knowing this why attach to ‘I’, ME, MINE and MY?
How and when we will transit we wonder and sigh.
Wise ones know where the things that truly matter lie.
They live The Middle Way where peace and joy soar high.
Here are 3 Dhamma couplets on ‘Impermanence’:
* “When impermanence is realized,
one’s mind grows more steady and wise.”
* “When one sees transiency clearly,
one clings not to things greedily.”
* “Reflecting on the impermanence of everything,

46
may we practice ‘Letting Go’ and remove all clinging.”
I attach a File “Thoughts of Worth” for your reflection.
May you be healthy, happy and stress-free.
All the best . Take care.
With Much Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
55 Dear Brother …
Hi there! Another week has passed
and it’s Friday again coming like
a flash of lighting. Hope you are
keeping well.
These are the words of Dhamma
I want to pen for this Friday:
“The benefits of Metta practice are many.
Those with Metta glow in the face so radiantly.
When it’s sleeping time, we can do so easily.
With no bad dreams, we can sleep so very soundly.
When it’s time to wake up, we do so smilingly.
With our Metta, people like us naturally.
Animals and unseen beings love us dearly.
Devas and gods give us protection constantly.
Metta practice helps us to concentrate strongly.
Metta cuts Loba, Dosa, Moha steadily.
When it’s time, with Metta, we pass on peacefully.
We may then be reborn in abodes so godly.”
So my dear friend, do practice Metta ardently.

47
Here’s sending you my thoughts of Metta to your mind.
May Blessings come into your life time after time.
I attach a File “The Power To Choose” for your reflection.
With Much Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
56 Dear Sister …
Hello there, here is wishing you
‘Sukhi Hotu’.
May things go very well with
whatever you do.
May you relate well with people
no matter who.
May your mind be mindful, peaceful and joyful too.
( ‘Sukhi Hotu’ means ‘May you be happy!’)
I would like to pen some ‘Dhamma Couplets’ and Buddhist
Jokes for you.
1. Attachment
‘Attachment in Pali is Upadana.
Beware, this is the root cause of Dukkha.’
Buddhist Joke 1
‘A Zen student asked his Master: “Is it okay to use email?”
“Yes”, replied the master, “but with no attachments.” ’
2 Anatta
‘The greater the true SEEING of Non-Self or Anatta,
the nearer you are to the state of Blissful Nibbana.’

48
Buddhist Joke 2
‘Someone sent the Buddha a gift box tied with a ribbon.
Buddha opened it to find it empty. “Aha!”, He said, “Just
what I wanted… Nothing!” ’
3 Peace
‘The mind needs space and time to do ‘No-thing’.
Then one will see life’s true peace and meaning.’
Buddhist Joke 3
A Buddhist phones the monastery and asks the monk, “Can
you come to do a blessing for my new house?”
The monk replies “Sorry, I’m busy.”
“What are you doing? Can I help?”
“I’m doing nothing.” replied the monk. “Doing nothing is a
monk’s core business and you can’t help me with that.”
So the next day the Buddhist phones again, “Can you please
come to my house for a blessing?”
“Sorry,” said the monk, “I’m busy.”
“What are you doing?”
“I’m doing nothing,” replied the monk.
“But that was what you were doing yesterday!” said the
Buddhist.
“Correct”, replied the monk, “I’m not finished yet!”
~ Ajahn Brahm
4 Change
‘ “The only constant is CHANGE,” says the Wise.
Things don’t stay permanent, painful or nice.’
Buddhist Joke 4
‘What does the Buddhist say to the pizza chef?

49
“Make me one with everything.”
The pizza chef prepares it and gives it to the Buddhist.
The Buddhist pays him and asks for the change.
The pizza vendor says: “Change comes from within.” ’
I attach a Story “Struggle” for your reflection.
All the best. Have a fruitful weekend. Take care.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
57 Dear Brother …
Hello Good Morning! Sukhi Hotu!
I would like to pen some of my Dhamma
thoughts on ‘Patience and ‘Endurance’.
“Patience and endurance are most
praiseworthy.
They are true hallmarks of spirituality.
Be patient when blessings do not come quickly.
Good kamma seeds need time to sprout certainly.
Be patient when problems ‘stress’ you heavily.
The good, the bad will pass inevitably.
Endure the ‘pain’ of good effort mindfully.
Enlightenment is attained most gradually.
Endure suffering or dukkha steadily.
Your good deeds will bear good fruits undoubtedly.
Do good, avoid bad, strive on diligently.
May you be calm, peaceful, healthy and happy.”
I attach a Humor piece “Dead Drunk” with Life lessons .
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin

50
58 Dear Sister …
Hello there! Hope all is well with you.
It’s Friday again ( not 13th,
ha, ha but 29th
!)
and it’s time for me to pen some Dhamma
thoughts.
The Positive Aspects of The Precepts to Practice
* Practice acts of Compassion most constantly.
The joy and peace in your heart you’ll feel and SEE.
* Practice well Charity or Generosity.
The peace of ‘letting go’ you will SEE clearly.
* Practice Contentment in your heart and mind.
A state of joy and peacefulness you’ll find.
* Practice always Truthful speech mindfully.
A clear conscience you’ll have undoubtedly.
* Practice sincere Harmonious speech time and again.
Happiness comes when you resolve conflict and pain.
* Practice Gentle Kind speech every where, every time.
So much good and peace spring up in many a mind.
* Practice more Beneficial speech of Dhamma.
The worth you’ll see when there’s the fall of Dukkha.
* Practice mindfulness and heedfulness daily.
A more peaceful living you’ll value greatly.
I attach a File “Attitude Is Everything” for reflection.
May Joy and Peacefulness reside in your heart

51
when you walk diligently The 8-Fold Path.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
59 Dear Brother …
Hello There! Good Morning!
Another week has passed by all of
us so very quickly.
Hope you are well, peaceful and getting along most
mindfully.
Being alert, aware and heedful is useful certainly.
A mind trained in such a way will get stronger undoubtedly.
I would like to share with you a Zen Story that pertains to
Awareness:
Full Awareness
“After practicing for ten years as an apprentice, Tenno achieved
the rank of Zen teacher. One rainy day, he went to visit the
famous Zen Master Nan-in. Upon walking in through the door,
the famous Master greeted him. Tenno was asked, ‘You came in
the rain?”
“Yes, Master,” Tenno replied.
"Did you leave your wooden clogs and umbrella on the porch?"
"Yes I did," Tenno replied.
"Tell me," the Master continued, "did you place your umbrella to
the left of your shoes, or to the right?"
Tenno did not know the answer. He then realized that he had not
yet attained full awareness. He became Nan-in's apprentice and
studied under him for ten more years.”
Reflections
* Most of us lack attention, awareness and mindfulness of the
physical and mental phenomena within us and in the external
world. Such a heedless mind becomes weak and is more likely to
make careless mistakes and have poor judgment.

52
* Problems, conflicts, trouble and disharmony often arise out of
a lack of mindfulness ... we disrupt the peace, balance and
harmony of our environment through acts of mindlessness; we
create conflicts within ourselves and with others through
heedlessness.
* It is imperative that we train the mind to be more aware, alert
and mindful.
I attach a Motivational piece “Wisdom Tells Me That …”
All the best of everything to you. Take care.
60 Dear Sister …
Hi Good Morning, Sukhi Hotu!
May your Aspirations come true.
May your Dhamma grow steady too.
May good come from all that you do.
Spread Metta to no matter Who.
Here are some Dhamma messages for Reflection:
* When Wisdom sees Nature as she is,
there arises in the mind true Peace.
* Develop Wisdom and Compassion.
This will lead to mind Liberation.
* If we react to others’ words or action,
we will be far from Peace and Liberation.
* Freedom OF desire will lead to much pain and misery.
Freedom FROM desire will lead to peace and serenity.
* How can you be free from fear and worry?

53
You’ve to walk the 8-Fold Path ardently.
I attach a Story “Fate is in your Hands” for contemplation.
May you have peaceful days ahead
free from greed, delusion and hate.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
61 Dear Brother …
Peaceful Morning my Dhamma friend.
To you joy and metta I send.
Here are some words I’d like to pen:
Of Life and Dhamma
* Know Dhamma, make Dhamma known the best you can.
The great benefits you will SEE and feel then.
* The most precious thing is Dhamma undoubtedly.
A life based on the Dhamma brings Peace certainly.
* Learn, practice and reflect on the Dhamma constantly.
This is the way to end all Dukkha eventually.
* One who backslides in Dhamma practice will face pain
and misery.
Keep practicing Dana, Sila and Bhavana diligently.
* Kamma and Dhamma realized is what matters
finally.
Ignorant people waste their lives away
most foolishly.

54
* May your happiness and peace grow steadily
as you practice the true Dhamma ardently.
I attach a Humor piece “Revenge from a Kiss” for reflection.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
62 Dear Sister…
Good Morning! Sukhi Hotu!
Have you ever wondered why
so many go from LIGHT to
DARKNESS when it comes to Dhamma Practice?
To my mind, these are some of the reasons:
1 Lack of Saddha (Confidence) in the Triple Gem
‘Refuge in the Buddha, Dhamma and Sangha
is a MUST on our Path to end all Dukkha.’
2 Lack of Patience
‘How can there be any spiritual gain
without good effort and bearing with pain?’
3 Lack of Determination
‘Aspiration, Perseverance and Determination
we must all have in striving for Peace and Liberation.’
4 Lack of Sense Restraint
‘Sense indulgences are obstacles in Dhamma Practice.
Those who fall victims will not find true Happiness and
Peace.

55
5 Unchecked Pursuit of Worldly Things
‘Pursuing wealth, status, power and fame unceasingly
is foolish indeed ‘coz life is one of Uncertainty.’
6 Absence of Kalyana-Mitta
‘A good spiritual friend or Kalyana-Mitta
helps and guides us along the Way to cross Samsara.’
7 Lack of Dana Practice
‘ The practice of Giving and Service helps cut the Ego.
We will then go on practicing Dhamma to SEE and
KNOW.
8 Not Seeing The Three Signs
‘Meditate to realize Anicca, Dukkha and Anatta.
A central part of Dhamma Practice, this’ll lead to
Nibbana.
9 Not Developing Right View
‘When Right View is absent from the mind,
we’ll stray away from Dhamma Sublime.’
10 Feeding the ‘I, Me’ and ‘Wanting, Craving’
‘When the ‘I, Me’ and the ‘Want’ grow more and more,
there will be much Dukkha awaiting in store.
Here’s wishing you a pleasant weekend. Take care.
I attach a file “Seeing Clearly” to contemplate upon.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin

56
1 Humor With Reflection
Taxi
Meter
A taxi cab was crazily weaving in and out of the
traffic.
“Just what are you trying to do?” the grumpy
miserly passenger shouted at the taxi driver.
“I can’t control the car,” the driver said. “Can you
use your mobile phone to ask for help?”
“You have to pay the charge,” the miser replied.
“And for Heaven’s sake, switch off the fare meter.”
Reflection
Even in dangerous situations all that a miserly man
can think of is his money more than anything else.
When greed, attachment and craving are strong in a
person, his mind becomes so 'clouded' and deluded
that he can say or do really foolish things for which
he has to suffer here and hereafter.

57
2 A Story for Reflection
Are you doing Something?
A man distraught by all the pain and suffering he saw
all around him broke down and banged his fists into the
dirt.
His head turned upward and he yelled at his God.
"Look at this mess! Look at all this pain and suffering.
Look at all this horrible killing, hate and suffering!
God, Oh God!
WHY DON'T YOU DO SOMETHING?"
And his God spoke to him and said,
"I did. I sent you."
Reflection
* As long as we are in this Samsaric world ( the cycle
of conditioned existence ... birth, suffering, ageing.
death, rebirth ...), we have to face the 8 worldly
conditions of happiness & sorrow, gain & loss, praise
& blame, honor & dishonor . That's the Way things are.
* Instead of always complaining, blaming and being
negative about the way things sometimes go, why don't
we chart our lives as follows :
# Develop our minds to get rid of greed, anger, hatred,
and delusion. We will then attain peace and freedom of
the mind.
# Go forth and do something to relieve the suffering of
the less fortunate.
# Do something to make our Earth a better place to live
in.

58
3 Inspiration
Life’s Little Lessons
* Giving someone all your love is never an assurance
that they'll love you back.
Don't expect love in return, just wait for it to grow in their
hearts but if it doesn't, be content it grew in yours.
* There are things you love to hear but you would never
hear it from the person whom you would like to hear it
from, but don't be deaf to hear it from the person who
says it with his heart.
* When one door of happiness closes, another opens.
But we often look so long at the closed door,
that we don't see the one which has been opened for us.
* Always put yourself in another person’s shoes.
If you feel that it hurts you, it probably does hurt the
person too.
* When you were born, you were crying
and everyone around you was smiling.
Live your life to the fullest so that when you die,
you're smiling and everyone around you is crying.
* A careless word may kindle a strife;
A cruel word may wreck a life
A timely word may level stress
A lovely word may heal and bless.
* The happiest people don't necessarily have the best of
everything;
they just make the most of everything that comes along
the way.
~Author Unknown~

59
4 Motivation
Everything We Do
We may not always realize that everything we do
affects not only our lives but touches others too.
A single happy smile can always
brighten up the day
for anyone who happens
to be passing by your way.
And a little bit of thoughtfulness
that shows someone you care
creates a ray of sunshine for both of you to share.
Yes, every time you offer
someone a helping hand,
every time you show a friend you understand.
Every time you have
a kind and gentle word to give,
you help someone to find
beauty in this precious life we live.
For happiness brings happiness
and loving ways bring love,
and giving is the treasure
that contentment is made of.
Unknown Author

60
Last Will
A lawyer was reading the will of a
rich man to the people mentioned
in the will.
“To my loving wife Sarah, who stood by me in the
rough times as well as the smooth, I will my
mansion and $3 million.”
“To my daughter Rebecca, who looked after me in
illness and kept the business going, I give the
business, my yacht and all my jewelry.”
“And to my cousin Arthur, who hated me, argued
with me and went round telling people I would not
remember him in my will, I have this to say :
You were wrong : Hello, Arthur! ”
Reflection
Some people with some bitterness in their hearts
would try to give their enemies a piece of their
mind …even at their deathbeds . Such people will
not have peace of mind. We need to learn to forgive
and let go of all anger, resentment, ill-will, revenge
and hatred. Such mental states will bring much
suffering to oneself. Anger and hatred can propel a
person to a woeful state in the afterlife.

61
6 Motivation
10 Chinese Proverbs With Wisdom
* A little impatience will spoil great plans.
* A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single
step.
* A smile will gain you ten more years of life.
* He who asks is a fool for five minutes, but he who
does not ask remains a fool forever.
* A closed mind is like a closed book; just a block of
wood .
* Better to light a candle than to curse the darkness.
* Be not afraid of growing slowly, be afraid only of
standing still.
* Clear conscience never fears midnight knocking.
* Teachers open the door. You enter by yourself.
* I was angered, for I had no shoes. Then I met a man
who had no feet.

62
7 Inspiration
AFFIRMATIONS AND ASPIRATIONS
May we serve others with a selfless heart
as we strive on in the spiritual Path.
May we open-heartedly help those in need.
May we always do a meritorious deed.
May we rejoice in others’
meritorious action.
May such meritorious deeds
be an inspiration.
May we constantly practice good morality
to grow mindfully in our spirituality.
May we teach and spread
goodness everywhere.
May we with patience any hardship bear.
May we develop wisdom in our mind
as we strive on for peace
and Truth Sublime.

63
A Little Mouse Story
He was aghast to discover that it was a mouse trap. Retreating to
the farmyard the mouse proclaimed the warning:
"There is a mouse trap in the house!” The chicken clucked and
scratched, raised her head and said, "Excuse me, Mr. Mouse, I can
tell this is a grave concern to you, but it is of no consequence to
me. I cannot be bothered by it."
The mouse then told the pig, "There’s a mouse trap in the house.”
"I am very sorry Mr. Mouse," sympathized the pig, "but there is
nothing I can do about it but pray.” The mouse turned to the cow.
She said, "You say, Mr. Mouse, a mouse trap? I am NOT in grave
danger. You are! It’s your business.”
So the mouse returned to the house, head down and dejected. That
very night a sound was heard throughout the house. The farmer's
wife rushed to see what was caught. In the darkness, she did not
see that it was a venomous snake whose tail the trap had caught.
The snake bit the farmer's wife. The farmer rushed her to the
hospital. She returned home with a fever.
The farmer killed the chicken to make chicken soup for the wife.
His wife's sickness continued. Friends and neighbors came to
visit. To feed them, the farmer butchered the pig to prepare lunch.
The farmer's wife did not get well. A few days later she died.
So many people came for her funeral. The farmer had the cow
slaughtered to provide meat for all of them to eat.
Reflections
* We are all interconnected and interdependent. What happens
to others or the environment can have a bearing on us.
* Working as a team to resolve a problem is important.
* Apathy, selfishness, self-centredness and cold-heartedness
are negative traits and can bring negative effects to the ones
with these traits.
A mouse looked through a crack in the wall
to see the farmer and his wife opening a
package. What food might it contain?

64
9 Inspiration
A New Day
by Unknown Author
This is the beginning of a new day.
I have been given this day to use as I will.
I can waste it, or use it.
I can make it a day long to be remembered for its joy,
its beauty and its achievements,
or it can be filled with pettiness.
What I do today is important
because I am exchanging a day of my life for it.
When tomorrow comes
this day will be gone forever,
but I shall hold something
which I have traded for it.
It may be no more than a memory,
but if it is a worthy one
I shall not regret the price.
I want it to be a gain not loss,
good not evil,
success not failure.
May every day of
yours be happy
and peaceful.
May you live a life
that’s righteous and
meaningful.

65
The Braggart
The strong young man at the construction site was
bragging that he could outdo anyone in a feat of
strength. He made a special case of making fun of one
of the older workmen.
After several minutes, the older worker had had
enough.
“Why don’t you put your money where your mouth
is?” the old man said. “I’ll bet a week’s wages that I
can haul something in a wheelbarrow over to that
building that you won’t be able to wheel back.”
“You’re on, old man,” the braggart replied.
“Let’s see your strength.”
The old man reached out and grabbed the
wheelbarrow by the handles. Then nodding to the
young man, he said, “All right. Now get in.”
Reflection
Sometimes an egoistic young person who insults
an elder needs to be taught a lesson in a cool and
ingenuous way.
The virtues of being well-mannered, courteous
and polite are lacking among many young ones
today ... is this due to our modern rat-race and
materialistic society?

66
The Marble Statue and The Marble Floor Tiles
There was this museum laid with beautiful marble tiles, with a marble
statue displayed in the middle. Many people came from all over the
world just to admire this beautiful marble statue.
One night, a marble tile started talking to the marble statue.
Marble tile: "Marble statue, it's just not fair, it's just not fair! Why
does everybody from all over the world come all the way here just to
step on me while admiring you? Not fair!"
Marble statue: "My dear friend, marble tile. Do you still remember
that we were actually from the same cave?"
Marble tile: "Yeah! That's why I feel it is even more unfair. We were
born from the same cave and yet we receive different treatment now.
Not fair!" he cried again.
Marble statue: "Then, do you still remember the day when the
designer tried to work on you, but you resisted the tools?"
Marble tile: "Yes, of course I remember. I hate that guy! How could
he use those tools on me, it hurt so badly."
Marble statue: "That's right! He couldn't work on you at all as you
resisted being worked on."
Marble tile: "So???"
Marble statue: "When he decided to give up on you and start
working on me instead, I knew at once that I would be something
different after his efforts. I did not resist his tools, instead I bore all
the painful tools he used on me.
Marble tile: "Mmmmmm......."
Marble statue: "My friend, there is a price to everything in life.
Since you decided to give up half way, you can't blame anybody who
steps on you now." Author Unknown
Reflection
* There is no gain without pain.
* He that wants the fruit must climb the tree.
* Without struggle and endurance, how can one attain anything?
* Foolish ones complain and complain about their ‘misfortunes’.
* Wise ones know that patience and the ability
to withstand hardship are qualities the mind
must have to reap great rewards later.

67
Love Struck Child
The pretty young schoolteacher was concerned
about a 12-year old student. One day the teacher
asked the student, “Raj, why is it your schoolwork
has become so bad lately?”
“I can’t concentrate,” Raj said. “I’ve fallen in
love.”
“Is that so?” the teacher said with a smile.
“With whom?”
“With you,” Raj answered.
“But, Raj,” said the teacher, “don’t you see how
silly this is? It’s true that I want a husband of my
own one day, but I don’t want a child.”
“Oh, don’t worry teacher,” Raj said reassuringly.
“I’ll be very careful.”
Reflection
* A person’s words can be misconstrued by
another party. This can lead to unintended
consequences.
* Are the young ones today more distracted by
‘love affairs’ of the heart and sexual matters?
Good moral education is important.

68
13 Motivation
Conquer Your Fear With Action
Nothing in life is to be feared.
It is only to be understood.
When you dare to face
the things that scare you,
you open the door to freedom.
Most of your obstacles will melt away
if instead of cowering before them
or procrastinating
about dealing with them
you make up your mind
to walk boldly through them.
Don't be afraid to take the step
you need to take
to make positive changes in your life.
To fight fear you must act.
Waiting, putting off,
or postponing only increases fear.
If you understood enough,
you would never be afraid.
~unknown~

69
14 Inspiration
Inspiring Thoughts For Reflection
You can't be all things to all people.
You can't do all things at once.
You can't do all things equally well.
You can't do all things better than everyone else.
Your humanity is showing just like everyone else's.
So...
You have to find out who you are, and be that.
You have to decide what comes first, and do that.
You have to discover your strengths, and use them.
You have to learn not to compete with others,
Because no one else is in the contest of being you.
Then...
You will have learned to accept your own uniqueness.
You will have learned to set priorities and make
decisions.
You will have learned to live with your limitations.
You will have learned to give yourself the respect that
is due.
And you'll be a most vital mortal.
Dare To Believe...
That you are a wonderful, unique person.
That you are a once-in-all-history event.
That it's more than a right, it's your duty, to be who you
are.
That life is not a problem to solve, but a gift to cherish.
And you'll be able to stay one up on what used to get
you down.

70
Just A Visitor
A middle-aged man was touring New York. One day he
visited a famous rabbi who lived in an apartment in the
outskirt of the city. When he entered the rabbi’s
apartment he was very surprised to see that there was
hardly any piece of furniture in the apartment. In fact, the
apartment was quite barren.
The two men were soon engaged in a conversation.
“Rabbi, you lived all by yourself in this apartment?” the
middle-aged man asked. “Oh, yes,” the rabbi replied
simply.
“How long have you lived in this apartment?’
“I have lived in this place for about ten years already,” the
rabbi answered.
“Ten years!” the man exclaimed. “Where are all your
household items and furniture?”
The rabbi responded, “What about you, young man?
Where are all your things and furniture?”
“Rabbi, you must understand I’m just a visitor,” the man
said.
“So am I,” the rabbi answered.
The man learnt an important life lesson from the wise
rabbi.
Reflections
* Wealth, status, fame and gain are but transitory.
* SEEING Anicca, attach not to things worldly.
* Burdens from the heart will then lighten certainly.
* Work and tasks are then tackled with more peacefully.
* Worry will lessen and life will be more stress-free.
* ‘LIVE NOW’ – we must train and train the mind
constantly.

71
The Eccentric
Interviewer
An eccentric boss was interviewing a lady applicant for a
post in his company. He had a candle at his desk. With a
smug in his face, the boss asked the applicant, “Why did
the elephant eat the candle?”
The lady, after a moment of pause, attempted an answer,
“Because the elephant was crazy?”
The boss laughed sneeringly and said, “No, you brainless
lady …because the elephant wanted a light snack!”
The applicant was getting annoyed and insulted. She
wanted to get back at the interviewer.
“Sir,” she said, “do you know what kind of candle burns
longer, a red candle or a green candle?”
The boss was stumped. “A red candle?” he guessed.
“Neither!” the lady said. “Candles always burn shorter!
You lack brains!”
Reflection
* One has to be careful with the words one uses on
another. Just as we do not like to
1. be lied to
2. be slandered
3. have harsh words used upon us
4. be the target of gossip, rumours, insults, ridicule and
so on,
likewise, we should not use such speech upon others.
* It does not pay to try to insult or bring down another
person. We are bound to get back negative effects.

72
17 Inspiration
The Buddha Says…
From The Dhammapada
Verse 81
“As a solid rock is not shaken
by the wind,
even so the wise remain unshaken
amidst blame and praise.”
Reflection
* In our conditioned world, none is free from
the 8 worldly winds that will 'blow into us'
time and again : Gain & Loss; Pleasure &
Pain; Praise and Blame; Honor and
Dishonor. This is a fact one has to
acknowledge and realize in our hearts.
* When we train our minds to respond wisely
to these worldly winds, we will not be
‘'slaves' to our conditioned reactions that will
lead to suffering ... anger, frustration,
attachment and clinging, jealousy, hatred and
other defilements.

73
A Wise Old Man
A wealthy man requested a wise old man to wean his son
away from his bad habits.
The wise man took the youth for a stroll through a garden.
Stopping suddenly, he asked the boy to pull out a tiny plant
growing there. The youth held the plant between his thumb
and forefinger and pulled it out. The old man then asked him
to pull out a slightly bigger plant. The youth pulled hard and
the plant came out, roots and all.
"Now pull out that one," said the old man pointing to a bush.
The boy had to use all his strength to pull it out.
"Now take this one out," said the old man, indicating a
guava tree. The youth grasped the trunk and tried to pull it
out. But it would not budge.
"I – It's impossible," said the boy, panting with the effort.
"So it is with bad habits," said the sage. "When they are
young it is easy to pull them out but when they take hold
they cannot be uprooted."
The session with the old man changed the boy's life.
Reflections
* Bad habits and conditioning in us are hard to alter… right
mindfulness, great determination and effort are needed to
remove these defilements.
* Unless and until we remove all our bad defilements of
greed, hatred and delusion, we will continue to suffer in
Samsara.
* To help remove conditioning that causes us much
Dukkha, listen to the true Dhamma, contemplate on the
Dhamma constantly, do programmed mindfulness, make
aspirations /affirmations and associate with Dhamma friends
of wisdom.

74
Simple Test
Two young graduates applied for a
single position in a big company. Both
of them had the same qualifications.
The two applicants had to sit for a test consisting of 10 questions.
Both men could not answer only one of the questions correctly.
After looking at the answers of the test, the manager called in the
first applicant and told him, “Both of you answered 9 questions
correctly but we have decided to give the job to the other
applicant.”
“May I know why I was not chosen since I also had 9 correct
answers?” the rejected applicant asked.
“Our decision was not based on the correct answers, but on the
question you missed,” the manager said.
“How would you judge that one incorrect answer is better than
the other?” the rejected applicant asked.
“Simple,” the manager said. “For question 6, your fellow
applicant answered ‘I don’t know’. You put down ‘Neither do I’.”
Reflections
* In today's very materialistic world, so many resort to lying and
cheating in order to gain an upper hand. The fool thinks he can
get away with such immoral conduct but sooner or later negative
consequences will come round back to him.
* Constant reflection on the following will help us realize the
Dhamma and lead a righteous life:
1. Impermanence is a fact of life. Upon death, material
possessions, earthly wealth, loved ones and even our bodies
cannot follow us. Only our kamma follows us.
2. Life is uncertain. Death is certain. And the point and mode of
death are uncertain. Shouldn't we then lead moral and righteous
lives?
3. All face old age, disease and death. At the end of the day, what
counts is this: Have we led a moral life, rendering service to
others and cultivating the mind to grow in compassion and
wisdom?

75
20 Inspiration
8 Favorite Patience Quotes
* All things come round to him who will but
wait.
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
* Patience is not passive; on the contrary,
it is active; it is concentrated strength.
Edward G. Bulwer-Lytton
* Patience and passage of time do more than
strength and fury.
Jean de la Fontaine
* Patience is bitter, but its fruit is sweet.
Phaedrus
* Our patience will achieve more than our
force.
Edmund Burke
* Patience is power; with time and patience
the mulberry leaf becomes silk.
Chinese Proverb
* He that can have patience can have
what he will.
Benjamin Franklin
* Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is
patience.
Ralph Waldo Emerson

76
Forgetting The Main Thing ...
A Story With A Moral
A woman bought a parrot to keep her company but returned
it the next day.
"This bird doesn't talk," she told the owner.
"Does he have a mirror in his cage?" he asked. "Parrots love
mirrors. They see their reflection and start a conversation."
The woman bought a mirror and left.
The next day she returned; the bird still wasn't talking.
"How about a ladder? Parrots love ladders. A happy parrot
is a talkative parrot."
The woman bought a ladder and left.
But the next day, she was back. "Does your parrot have a
swing? No? Well, that's the problem. Once he starts
swinging, he'll talk up a storm."
The woman reluctantly bought a swing and left.
When she walked into the store the next day, her
countenance had changed.
"The parrot died," she said.
The pet store owner was shocked. "I'm so sorry. Tell me,
did he ever say a word?" he asked.
"Yes, right before he died," the woman replied. "In a weak
voice, he asked me, 'Don't they sell any food at that pet
store?'"
Reflection
Sometimes people forget crucial things … they are caught
up with just trying to please themselves, forgetting about
the important needs of others. Do you know what your real
priorities in life are?

77
22 Inspiration
AFFIRMATIONS AND
ASPIRATIONS
May my heart grow in Generosity
May I reach out more in Charity
May I not swerve from rules of Morality
May my thoughts, words and deeds grow
in purity
May I find mental peace through Non-
Attaching
May I see that Craving causes Suffering
May I stop all Unwholesome Doings
May I see the true Nature of Things
May I strive diligently in Virtuous
Practice
May I attain ultimate Happiness and Bliss
May I be Patient with others and within
May I be Calm, Tolerant and Forgiving

78
Calling
A Monkey…
Smart Johnny was sued by a Mrs. Robinson for
defamation of character. The judge found him guilty and
fined him five thousand dollars.
After the sentence, Johnny asked the judge in a loud
voice, “That means I cannot call Mrs. Robinson
“Monkey”?
“Yes, precisely,” the judge replied.
Making sure that Mrs. Robinson could hear him loud
and clear, Robin then asked the judge, “Can I call a
monkey ‘Mrs. Robinson’ then?”
“Oh, that would be alright,” the judge replied. “No legal
action can be taken on that.”
The man then looked at Mrs. Robinson directly and said,
“Good afternoon, Mrs. Robinson!”
Reflection
Some mean people will think of ‘ingenuous’ ways just
to get even with people they dislike.
Acts of revenge or vengeance do not solve problems.
They breed more anger, ill will and hatred.
The wise person cultivates kindness, compassion and
forgiveness. Then and only then will the person
experience true mental peace and freedom.

79
24 Humor For Reflection
Laugh and De-stress!
1 My friend thinks he is smart. He told me an onion is the only
food that makes you cry, so I threw a coconut at his face.
2 In a Catholic school cafeteria, a nun places a note in front of a
pile of apples, "Only take one. God is watching." Further down the line
is a pile of cookies. A little boy makes his own note, "Take all you
want. God is watching the apples."
3 Instead of "the John," I call my toilet "the Jim." That way it
sounds better when I say I go to the Jim first thing every morning.
4 A boy asks his father, "Dad, are bugs good to eat?" "That's
disgusting. Don't talk about things like that over dinner," the dad
replies. After dinner the father asks, "Now, son, what did you want to
ask me?" "Oh, nothing," the boy says. "There was a bug in your soup,
but now it’s gone."
5 I was wondering why the ball kept getting bigger and bigger,
and then it hit me.
6 Math Teacher: "If I have 5 bottles in one hand and 6 in the
other hand, what do I have?"
Student: "A drinking problem."
7 Don't break anybody's heart; they only have 1. Break their
bones; they have 206.
8 "Johnny, why did you kick your brother in the stomach?"
exclaimed the angry mother. “It was pure accident, Mama. He turned
around.”
9 Did you hear about the guy whose whole left side was cut off?
He's all right now.
10 A man was near dying. In his last request, he pleaded with his
wife to marry Joe.
WIFE: Joe? Isn't he your worst enemy? The very one who wants you
dead?
HUSBAND: Yes. Marry him!
WIFE: No, I won’t!
HUSBAND: Please do!
WIFE: Why?
HUSBAND: Because all these years I have suffered, let him suffer too!

80
25 Motivation
Aspirations To Make
* May my Dana practice keep growing.
May I help to reduce suffering.
* May I not cause harm to any being.
May my morality be a strong thing.
* May I never be overwhelmed by pursuits of
material wealth.
May I take care of my physical, mental and
spiritual health.
* May I meditate in calm and peace.
May all my pain, stress and worry cease.
.* May I develop my mind mindfully.
May I cut any negativity.
* May my mind be strong, tranquil and clear.
May my goal of perfect peace be near.
* May I SEE what really matters finally.
May I ‘let go’ and strive on spiritually.
* May I grow in Wisdom and Compassion.
May I reach Ultimate Liberation!

81
26 Inspiration
Inspirational SAYINGS
* Anger is an acid that can do more harm to the
vessel in which it is stored than to anything on
which it is poured.
* The wise man realizes Wisdom and Truth
within himself. The ignorant man gulps in lots
of harmful garbage from the outside – from the
fools and deluded ones.
* Your real wealth is accurately measured not
by what you own, but by what you are.
* Resentment is the number one blockade to
spiritual growth. (Norman Vincent Peale)
* Unselfishness preserves life, whereas love of
the ego kills it. (Gandhi)
* To be ignorant is sad – to be ignorant that you
are ignorant is far worse.
* Life is a millstone - YOU decide if it's going
to grind you down or polish you up.
* Life has two important lessons: Harm not
yourself or others. Love yourself and love
others.
* Learn to let go. That is the key to happiness.
(Buddha)
* All the happiness there is in this world comes
from thinking about others, and all the suffering
comes from preoccupation with yourself.
(Shantideva)

82
27 A Story For Reflection
While out to sea, a large boat became shipwrecked and
there was only a single survivor. This man prayed and
asked God to save his life.
Soon thereafter, another boat came by and offered the man
some help. "No thanks," he said. "I'm waiting for God to
save me."
The men on the boat shrugged their shoulders and
continued on.
As the man became more deeply concerned, another boat
came by.
Again, the people aboard offered this man some help, and
again he politely decline.
"I'm waiting for God to save me," he said again. After some
time, the man began to lose his faith, and soon after that he
died.
Upon reaching Heaven, he had a chance to speak with God
briefly. "Why did you let me die? Why didn't you answer
my prayers?"
"Dummy, I sent you two boats!"
Reflection
The Universe is always watching out for the best interests
of our spiritual evolution, even when we are too narrowly
focused to see all the other opportunities it presents us.
Sometimes, all that is needed is a change of perspective.
The Drowning
Man

83
“I’ll Do
Anything!”
A sexy young lady undergraduate entered a young
professor’s office. She closed the door and knelt
down pleadingly.
“I would do anything to pass this exam," she
pleaded.
She then leant closer to him, flipped back her hair,
gazed sexily into his eyes.
“I mean …” she whispered, "... I would do...
anything."
“Anything?” the professor returned her gaze.
“Yes, absolutely anything,” she said sexily.
The professor whispered to her, “Go back and study
your lecture notes.”
Reflection
* Today, in this highly materialistic world, so many
have lost their sense of values, moral principles,
integrity and human dignity.
* Many resort to immoral or unethical means to
attain worldly gains. It does not pay in the end ... by
the law of moral causation, immoral actions will
eventually bring about negative consequences.
* Never resort to immoral behavior to try to achieve
your goal.
Honest hard work is the only way.

84
29 Motivation
Light of Wisdom
* Life is tough…it can be hard
But when it gets unbearable don’t let down your guard
* Although bad things happen to us all
It’s important to remember to learn from each fall
* Life is tough but you are tougher
And just remember it could be rougher
* Remember to cherish the good things in life
They help to get you by in times of strife
* Don’t underestimate the worth of a friend
Because without them our hearts would not mend
* Always be true to everyone you meet
If you act fake you have suffered defeat
* It’s important to say what is only sincere
Words from the heart are the best kind to hear
* Never look back…the past is gone
Only memories remain to look upon
* Always look forward…moving ahead you must
Make the most of each day…it could be your last
* Don’t let others get you down
Show them a smile when they want a frown
* Try your best in all that you do
Believe in yourself and others will too
* Life is not a game to win or lose
It is a Gift to LOVE if we wisely choose

85
30 Inspiration
Mindful Reflections on a Vacation
* When thoughts transform the mind positively,
one lives more happily and peacefully.
* When right views and right thoughts fill the mind,
we'll have happiness and peace sublime.
* Stop and ponder from time to time.
May Wisdom arise in your mind.
* When the mind is confident and strong,
there are fewer things that will go wrong.
* Through mindfulness and constant reflection,
wisdom can come to face a situation.
* Thoughts that are truly wise and right
give you mental peace day and night.
* Getting along well with everybody
helps bring to the mind peace and harmony.
* May we not destroy Nature's Wonders and Beauty.
In Nature seek out Peace, Bliss and Serenity.
* With an Open Heart, Radiant Mind,
May we find Happiness Sublime.
* Happiness…we want to know the ‘WHAT’ and the
‘HOW’.
The trained mind knows that Happiness lies in the NOW.

86
31 A Story For Reflection
The Oak Tree and The Reeds
A mighty oak tree which stood for over one hundred years finally
was blown over by a storm. The tree fell into a river that floated
it downstream until it came to rest among the reeds growing
along the riverbank. The fallen giant asked the reeds in
amazement, "How is it that you were able to weather the storm
that was too powerful for me, an oak tree, to withstand?"
The reeds replied, "All these years you stubbornly resisted the
winds that swept your way. You took such pride in your strength
that you refused to yield, even a little bit. We, on the other hand,
have not resisted the winds, but have always bent with them. We
recognized the superior power of the wind and so, the harder the
wind blew the more we humbled ourselves before it."
Anonymous Source
Reflection
* The Proverb "Pride Goes Before A Fall" teaches us a good Life
Lesson. Humility and gentleness are strengths. Due to our EGO,
sometimes we foolishly resist or fight against things that are
inevitable or cannot be changed.
* When wisdom ( which needs to be cultivated through Dhamma
Practice ) tells us that certain happenings are unavoidable, we
need to accept them with patience, calmness and understanding.
Suffering will follow the person who foolishly and forcefully
interferes with certain happenings of Nature that are inevitable .
* Oftentimes one has to learn to 'flow smoothly with the
happenings of life' with a mind of patience, equanimity and
understanding. One then attains a degree of mental peace and
freedom.
* A wise person knows that he has to practice flexibility and
adaptability according to the changing circumstances of things.
The foolish one clings on to a rigid set of rules, traditional
beliefs, false pride and stubbornness.

87
32 Humor With Reflections
The Patients
A psychiatrist entered a room with 2 patients. He saw the
first patient sitting on the floor pretending to saw a piece of
wood into two halves. The second patient was hanging from
the ceiling by his feet. The doctor asked the first patient
what he was doing. The patient replied, “Can’t you see I’m
sawing this piece of wood into halves?”
“What is your friend doing up there in the ceiling?” the
doctor asked.
“My friend is crazy,” the first patient told the doctor. “He
thinks he’s an electric bulb.”
The doctor, noticing the man hanging down the ceiling
getting red in the face, asked the first patient, “ Why don’t
you get your friend down from the ceiling before he hurts
himself?”
“No way,” the first patient said. “If he comes down, I have
to work in the dark!”
Reflection
* A man may notice the craziness of another but he is not
aware of his own craziness.
* Others' faults are easy to see but as for one's own faults,
oftentimes one is blind to them.
* We are in a way all 'crazy' or 'mad' ... mad with the
defilements of greed , anger and egoism. Unless and until
one attains clarity and freedom of the mind, one's mind can
easily be conquered by the 'devils' of greed, anger, hatred
and delusion.
A psychiatrist entered a room with 2 patients.
He saw the first patient sitting on the floor
pretending to saw a piece of wood into two
halves. The second patient was hanging from
the ceiling by his feet. The doctor asked the first
patient what he was doing. The patient replied,
“Can’t you see I’m sawing this piece of wood
into halves?”
“What is your friend doing up there in the
ceiling?” the doctor asked.
“My friend is crazy,” the first patient told the
doctor. “He thinks he’s an electric bulb.”
The doctor, noticing the man hanging down the
ceiling getting red in the face, asked the first
patient, “ Why don’t you get your friend down
from the ceiling before he hurts himself?”

88
33 Inspiration
Wise Words
To
Ponder On
* Tell the Truth as it is. Don’t add or subtract.
* Nature, Time, and Patience are the three
greatest physicians.
* Be wary of you talking about yourself.
Leave that to others.
* Diligence is the mother of good luck and
opportunity.
* It is dangerous if knowledge is not guided by
good sense and wisdom.
* What you dislike in another take care to correct
in yourself.
* If you seek to understand the whole universe
you’ll understand nothing at all, but seek to
understand yourself and you’ll come to understand
the whole universe.

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