Financial Tsunami

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Hi Folks,

I've lost a fair bit on the markets, about $50,000 altogether over the year, and it's certainly having a detrimental effect on my retirement plans. In fact, I wonder if I'll be able to afford to retire!

But it's in times of financial crisis like this that one's development as a Buddhist is truly tested. Just how free from attachment to worldly things are we? We all know what the Buddha taught about impermanence and attachment, but how much progress have we made in these meditations? What a great opportunity to practice them !!

We understandably tend to seek security in the future based on an accumulation of wealth. But actually the future is of its nature always insecure, almost by definition. I think what this feeling of insecurity should do is bring our consciousnesses into the present, which is ultimately where Enlightenment is to be found. In my opinion, this is the true meaning of the Buddhist term "taking Refuge"

I must admit I'm personally quite pleased with the way I'm handling it. As yet, I've felt very little stress over the whole thing, even though the world economy looks like it's going to continue to nose dive this coming year!

How are you others coping? Let's hear from you.

Nirvana's the way!

Robert