Roshi started by wishing everyone in the Sangha a very happy new year.  He noted that in Chinese astrology, this is the year of the snake, whereas last year was the year of the dragon.  If we take a dragon and remove all the “drama” such as fire, wings, and claws, what we are left with is basically a snake.  It is the same thing with the year of the snake.  This is a year not to have drama, rather it is the year for introspection, patience, and observance.  Roshi encouraged us to bring these characteristics to our practice in 2025.

 

With this in mind, Roshi shared with us a very simple list to live a better life…

 

1)  If you make a mistake, fix it

This can be in all aspects of our life.  We state in our vows to save all beings – so another way to look at this is to fix all the errors we make which increase suffering in the world.

 

2)  If you are thankful, show it.

We assume others are mind readers, they are not!  It is such a simple thing to show gratitude.

 

3)  If you are confused, ask questions.

We stumble around in ignorance out of pride.  Why not get to clarity by asking a question.  It is less important that we have all the answers – the goal is to keep a mind of curiosity.  

 

4)  If you love someone, tell them.

Everyone needs love.  Don’t simply assume that they know your feelings – tell them!

 

5)  If you hurt someone, take responsibility.

You many not be able to solve every hurt, but be clear when it is your fault and own up to it.  The biggest part of healing for yourself and others is atonement (at -one-ment) with your actions

 

6)  If you are stuck, ask for help.

How much better would the world be if people simply asked for help instead of being too prideful?  It is not just getting help, but it is giving someone else the chance to be the hero and help out.

 

7)  If someone needs help, give it.

Be generous!  There is no score to keep – simply be useful to others.  This is the vow we all take.

 

8)  If you are wrong, acknowledge it.

This is the fastest way to make problems go away.  Refusing to acknowledge when you are wrong simply magnifies the problem and makes resolution so much more difficult.  Also, we are all wrong at some point, so what is the worst which could happen about admitting mistakes early?

 

9)  If you fall, get back up.

Life is not easy and we will all have setbacks.  The only thing we can do is simply get back up and try to do better the next time.

 

10)  If you see a wrong, take a stand.

Don’t be the person who simply complains about everything – be useful and DO SOMETHING about it.