Yesterday I and two friends spent several hours with Ajahn Sudanto of Abhayagiri Monastery. He and Ajahn Karunadammo, also of Abhayagiri, are staying at a hermitage nestled in the foothills of Mt. Hood along the Columbia Gorge east of Portland.
Our visit focussed on an imminent, drastic, and painful decision. The need for the decision was based on the actions of another. Ajahn’s counsel was a reminder of the value of the monastic community: in this case, teachings that are concise, clear, and meaningful.
Ajahn spoke of the Sallatha Sutta, the Dart (or Arrow), SN 36.6. It’s one thing to be wounded by a single dart that creates painful feelings. Sometime this dart – even for a noble one – is unavoidable. What is avoidable is taking a second – this time self-inflicted – dart in the form of painful and persistent emotions in response to the initial wounding.
This was useful advice. Understanding the effects of the second dart, and avoiding them, is helpful in keeping the mind clear and calm. A clear and calm mind can discern what actions, if any, are needed. When needed, they can be done without rancor. More darts just add to the suffering.
