DEFENDING THE HYPERSENSITIVE BIG EGO

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In this current world cycle, people in the society have become hyper-sensitive and easily offended.

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As Dhamma practitioners, we should be constantly monitoring our 6 Sense Bases and the 5 Aggregates, ie the Paticca-Samuppada.

We should also be referencing our thought, speech and actions according to the Satipatthana.

This is how we cultivate Samma-Vayama & Samma-Sati.

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The indication of the success of your practice is Uppekha (equanimity),

ie not being influenced by your base desires and emotional fluctuations (Not to be confused with moral apathy).

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So, how & why are some people so easily offended?

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In a reasonable and logical conversation or discussion, it is inevitable that somehow we are involved in one way or another.

What is important is that we are unbiased in our judgement and opinion.

This is not easy for everyone, as it may put yourself in a disadvantaged position.

Thus said, what is right may not be easy.

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It is also important that we should not make personal attacks on the other that is not related to the discussion.

An argument is about the TOPIC, but a quarrel is about YOUR EGO.

Raising your voice may be used to emphasize a certain point, but shouting and screaming simply indicates that you have lost control of your emotions.

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Mutual respect is also important in our practice. However, YOU need to first show respect before you can talk about mutual respect. Mutual respect goes both way.

You cannot show disrespect and talking about mutual respect, while expecting the other party to respect you. That is not how mutual respect goes.

 

Like the saying goes,

"Show respect even to people who don't deserve it. It is not a reflection of their character, but a reflection of yours."

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So, do think about it. Constantly perform introspection, and reflect on what you have done on a daily basis.

Are you arguing about the topic of discussion, or are you just defending your ego?

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