This talk explores the concept of craving and desire in Buddhist teachings, specifically how it relates to modern lifestyles. While the Buddhist teachings state that craving is the source of suffering, it is difficult to reconcile this in a world where material possessions and success are highly valued. Ajahn Brahm discusses the harm that excessive craving has caused to our planet and society, and asserts that the key to being happy is not accumulating more wealth and possessions, but rather learning to be content with what we have. He cites studies that talksabout how most people's desires for wealth and fame often lead to suffering and that these desires are often based on societal norms rather than wisdom. He gives examples of how people who live in big houses often have to work hard to maintain them and don't have time for relationships, and how being famous is actually not as great as people may think. He also shares a story about an abbot who kindly gives a burglar food and questions when he last ate. Buddhist teachings emphasize the importance of craving for the right things in life. Craving for wealth and material possessions can lead to suffering, while craving for qualities like kindness and compassion can bring true happiness.

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This dhamma talk was originally recorded using a low quality MP3 to save on file size on 30th November 2007. It has now been remastered and published by the Everyday Dhamma Network, and will be of interest to his many fans.

These talks by Ajahn Brahm have been recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia under the Creative Commons licence. You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.

This talk explores the topic of power, and the two different types of power – the power to control and the power of kindness. It delves into the dangers of becoming too focused on control and having a big ego, as well as the dysfunctional nature of exerting power over others. The Buddhist perspective is that true power comes from understanding and being kind to oneself and others, rather than trying to control and dominate.

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This dhamma talk was originally recorded using a low quality MP3 to save on file size on 16th November 2007. It has now been remastered and published by the Everyday Dhamma Network, and will be of interest to his many fans.

These talks by Ajahn Brahm have been recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia under the Creative Commons licence. You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.

Mindfulness is a natural state of mind that we can grow by being still and gentle. In our Western culture, we have an unhealthy obsession with working hard and achieving things. But in meditation, we need to learn how to rest our minds and bodies, to be able to slow down and see what is happening in the present moment. The faster we go, the less we are able to see. This talk is about how mindfulness and kindness can help us let go of the negative thoughts and emotions that clutter our minds. By being aware and compassionate towards ourselves and others, we can break negative habits and respond to situations in a more positive and effective way.

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This dhamma talk was originally recorded using a low quality MP3 to save on file size on 9th November 2007. It has now been remastered and published by the Everyday Dhamma Network, and will be of interest to his many fans.

These talks by Ajahn Brahm have been recorded and made available for free distribution by the Buddhist Society of Western Australia under the Creative Commons licence. You can support the Buddhist Society of Western Australia by pledging your support via their Ko-fi page.