A compilation of 30 ppt Presentations with LIFE Lessons to learn.

1. MORE LIFE Lessons
To Learn

2. MORE LIFE Lessons
To Learn

3. THE GIFT OF DHAMMA EXCELS ALL OTHER GIFTS
Title: More LIFE Lessons To Learn
Author: Oh Teik Bin
Teluk Intan, Perak, Malaysia
Front and back cover by Oh Teik Bin
Email: ohteikbin@gmail.com
Printed for free distribution
ot for sale
This edition (2012) : 5000 copies
This Dhamma Dana literature is a gift, printed solely for free
distribution. Lots of other educational and Dhamma material by
the same author are available at the following Websites:
www.dhammatelukintan.blogspot.com
www.slideshare.net/ohteikbin
www.youtube.com/user/ohlifelessons
www.toondoo.com/user/bteikoh
www.scribd.com/teikbin
http://engagedbuddhists.ning.com/profile/ohteikbin
www.twitter.com/TBroh
www.facebook.com/ohteikbin
No copyright is applicable to this publication and any
organizations, societies or individuals are welcome to reprint
part or all of it. However, such reprints must be for free
distribution. It would be appreciated if the author could be
informed by email of any reprint.
Printed by
BHS Book Printing Sdn. Bhd.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

4. CO TE TS
Dedication/Acknowledgements
Preface
1 Fate in Your Hands 1
2 16 Favorite Contentment Quotes 8
3 Coping With Stress 15
4 o Charge…A Lesson To Ponder in Life 26
5 12 Causes Of Downfall 34
6 Twisted Thinking And Mental Suffering 40
7 The Farmer’s Donkey 46
8 14 Steps To Conquer The Worry Habit 51
9 Reflections On Gratitude 58
10 Timeless TIME Quotes 64
11 Right And Wrong 71
12 A Short Course In Human Relations 78
13 The A – Z Of KIASU 85
14 Unconditional Love… A story to ponder on 96
15 Who Are The Real Outcasts? 104
16 Morning Motivation 113
17 Abraham Lincoln’s Letter To A Teacher 120
18 Fingers…A Story For Living 128
19 Enemies To Conquer 135
20 The Best Gifts To Give 141
21 Life Lessons From The Court 148
22 o Shoes… A Lesson To Learn 154
23 Forgiving Others 161
24 Good Character…Food For Thought 167
25 The Shipwreck…A Story With A Life Lesson 179
26 14 Magical Moments Of Ease And Peace 184
27 10 Life Lessons From The Japan Disaster 191
28 The Moonlight Ride…A Story To Touch Your Heart 200
29 The Benefits Of Meditation 211
30 ‘Aiyoh! Why Like That One?’ 217

5. PREFACE
The feedback for my previous book for free distribution, “LIFE
Lessons With PowerPoints” has been most encouraging. Many
said that the full color format, compact size, concise presentations
and points for Dhamma Reflection are very appealing. One reader
wrote in to say: “I have never read to completion any Dhamma
book but I read the whole of LIFE Lessons in one sitting! It is
easy to understand but of course it’s a challenge to practice the
Dhamma.” Some wrote, mostly through email, comments on
favorite chapters in LIFE Lessons and how the material affected
them.
* “When I read ‘Mother’, I immediately phoned my mum whom I
had not seen for some months.”
* “ ‘14 Steps To Develop Patience’ really helped me to check my
temper and impatience which had been causing me much pain.”
* “I got to learn to count my blessings from ‘Life’s Problems’ ”.
* “ ‘The Lizard’ taught me so much about love and compassion.”
* “I was inspired to practice the meditation on loving-kindness
after reading the chapter on ‘Metta Bhavana’ ”.
* “ ‘A King’s Three Wishes’ sparked some realization in me on
how foolish we can be in non-stop pursuits of material wealth.”
The positive responses to LIFE Lessons really motivated me to
write ‘More LIFE Lessons To Learn’, a sort of sequel to the
earlier book. It also has 30 chapters touching on different aspects
of the Dhamma and their applications to our present living. The
PowerPoint Presentations in this book can be viewed from my
Slideshare Space at www.slideshare.net/ohteikbin . They can be
downloaded and used as Dhamma and educational material in
Buddhist Sunday School, Dhamma Classes, Motivation, Youth
/Children’s Camps and other educational programs or activities
The author is truly grateful to BHS BOOK PRINTING SDN.
BHD. and all other sponsors who have made this book possible.
May All Beings Be Well And Happy!
OH TEIK BI

6. 1 Fate In Your Hands 1
Buddhism does not subscribe to the belief that one’s destiny
hefty household bills of all sorts we need to pay monthly.
is fated and unchangeable. Our lives are not predestined.
When we are all burdened with unnecessary commitments, we
Our intentional doings of important things that really matter in
have little time for so may the mind, speech and body will
chart the future. It and developing thethat even in this age
life – learning about is very strange mind, showing kindness
of others, rendering services to technology and psychological
to advances in science, the needy, spending time with our
understanding cultivating our spirituality. people, including
loved ones and of the mind, so many
educated our lives as so superstitiousend; we fail to realize that
We lead ones are if they will not and gullible. They, in
life is uncertain and death is certain.
their ardent quest to change their luck, fortune, life span
and destiny, often fall parents is tremendous. We indeedhear
The gratitude we owe our victims to con men. It’s often sad
or read in the newspaper of parents orscams. I personally
that many children abandon their terrible give little attention
know of to theircases of Reason?who are in deep ‘busy-ness’.
and care many parents. people They
* paypiety and gratitude are among luckvirtues we need to
Filial huge sums of money for good the charms, talismans
and amulets in the to realize true happiness and peace.
practice if we wish false belief that their luck will change.
* consult ‘fortune experts’ to have their names altered or
modified so that their health or wealth will grow.
* run around to temples or other places of worship to get
auspicious days and times to start their business, marry their
sons or daughters, conduct last funeral rites and what-nots.
* depend so much on matters like astrology and feng shui
to live their lives to the extent that conflicts and arguments
arise and multiply among the members in the family.
The Buddha once said, “Fools wait for a luck day. For the
industrious or diligent one, everyday is a lucky day.”
Our life is in our hands. When we learn, understand,
practice and realize well the Dhamma, things will work out
naturally for us. When we take true refuge in the Triple
Gem, the Buddha, Dhamma and Sangha, we will stop
chasing around for false hopes, protection, security, and
unnecessary worldly things that are rooted essentially in
greed, hatred and delusion. We will strive with our own
effort towards a destiny of happiness, peace and freedom.

7. 2
Once upon a time, there
was a general who was
leading his army into
battle against an enemy
ten times the size
of his own.
Along the way to
the battle field,
the troops
stopped by a
small temple to
pray for victory.

8. 3
The general held up a coin
and told his troops:
I am going to
implore the gods
to help us crush
our enemy.
If this coin lands with the heads on top,
we’ll win. If it’s tails, we’ll lose.
Our fate is in the hands of the gods.
Let’s pray wholeheartedly.
After a short prayer, the general tossed the coin.
It landed with the heads on top.

9. 4
The troops were overjoyed and went into
the battle with high spirit.
Just as
predicted, the
smaller army
won the battle.
7
The soldiers were exalted. One soldier
remarked, “It’s good to have the gods on our
side! o one can change what the gods have
determined!”
Another shouted, “Our destiny is predetermined by the
8
gods!”

10. 5
“Really? Fate? Destiny?” the general laughed.
The general showed his soldiers the coin –
BOTH SIDES OF IT WERE HEADS!
General
9
End of Story
May The World Be Free From Wars
Which Bring Untold Suffering To Many.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
10
For Reflections

11. 6
One’s destiny is not fixed
or decided by the gods or ‘Fate’.
One’s destiny lies within one’s own hands.
The Law of Cause and Effect reigns
supreme – the present is conditioned to a
good extent by the past.
12
The future is uncertain and not fixed – causes and
conditions from the past and present
do influence the future.
What we do NOW is of utmost importance.

12. 7
The outcome of a deed or action depends on
various factors and conditions… one of the most
important being one’s state of mind/attitude …
concentration, mindfulness, confidence and other
positive qualities of the mind.
‘IF WE THI K WE CA , WE CA ’
is certainly a good attitude
to cultivate.
The End
* “You are the master of your own destiny. Use your
strengths well. They are the keys to your destiny and
your success in life. Once you know yourself and take
action to realize your dreams, you can unlock the
doors to your own potential.” eil Somerville
* “Destiny is no matter of chance. It is a matter of
choice: It is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing
to be achieved.” William Jennings Bryan

13. 2 16 Favorite Contentment Quotes 8
Some years ago, I received by email a short story with a
very good moral message of simplicity and contentment. I
reproduce the short story six, I used to some editing:
Ever since I was a child of here with ponder on the
“An American businessman exist a Harvard MBA watched
tremendous disparities that with in human conditions. It
a Mexican fisherman unload Ihis small catch andfish at a
was later on in my life, when started to learn of practise
small Dhammavillage. The businessman then asked why he
the coastal that some light was shed on these
didn't stay out issues. and catch more fish. The Mexican said
philosophical longer Some years ago, I did a Power Point
he had enough to support his family's immediate me when I
presentation based on the thoughts that puzzled needs. The
was young. The objective was to help make us reflect on
rest of his time he spent with his wife and kids and playing
his guitar and taking life easy.are, The Four Noble Truths,
the Dhamma – the Way things The businessman told him,
“You Five Universal Orders, The Law you Cause and Effect,
The should spend more time fishing; of could then buy a
much biggerRebirth, The Six Realmswould have a fleet of
Kamma and boat. Eventually you etc.
fishing boats. You would needrealization of these Dhamma
With understanding and some no middleman but sell your
big catch directly toto live in righteousness,Why, you could
points we can learn processing factories. harmony and
expand your business andthe Naturala cannery in ew York
peace in accordance with even own Laws.
A life that is lived meaningfully within oneself and also
City. Your enterprise would reach out far and wide.”
The fisherman asked,would be long would it life.
serving those in need, “How a most worthy take?” The
businessman replied, “Oh perhaps 15 – 20 years. You
would make millions and then you could retire and live a
simple, happy life in a small village. Life would be so easy
living with your wife and playing with little kids in such a
carefree way. You could also enjoy your guitar playing.”
The Mexican fisherman was amused and smiled contentedly
at the businessman. He said, "Isn't that what I'm doing
right now?"
Today, we see so many people caught up in the game of
chasing for more and more material wealth, status and
power, thinking that somewhere, sometime in the future,
they would then attain the pleasure, happiness and peace
they yearn for. They forget that real happiness and peace are
attained in the NOW, living a simple and contented life.

14. 9
16 Favorite
We tend to forget that
happiness doesn't come
as a result of getting
something we don't have,
but rather of recognizing
and appreciating
what we do have.
Frederick Keonig
Contentment is
natural wealth,
luxury is artificial
poverty.
Socrates

15. 10
Health is the greatest
possession.
Contentment is the
greatest treasure.
Confidence is the
greatest friend.
Non-being is the
greatest joy.
Lao Tzu
There is no end of
craving. Hence
contentment alone is
the best way to
happiness. Therefore,
acquire contentment.
Swami Sivananda
Contentment is a
pearl of great price,
and whoever
procures it at the
expense of ten
thousand desires
makes a wise and a
happy purchase.
John Balguy

16. 11
Man falls from the
pursuit of the ideal of
plan living and high
thinking the moment he
wants to multiply his
daily wants. Man's
happiness really lies in
contentment.
Mohandas Gandhi
Riches are not
from an
abundance of
worldly goods,
but from a
contented mind.
Muhammad
Contentment is not
the fulfillment of
what you want, but
the realization of
how much you
already have.
Unknown

17. 12
The secret of
contentment is
knowing how to enjoy
what you have, and to
be able to lose all
desire for things
beyond your reach.
Lin Yutang
Content makes poor men rich; discontentment
makes rich men poor.
Benjamin Franklin
11
If you are
content, you
have enough to
live comfortably.
Plautus

18. 13
My crown is in my heart, not
on my head, Nor decked with
diamonds and Indian stones,
Nor to be seen: My crown is
called content: A crown it is,
that seldom kings enjoy.
William Shakespeare
When we cannot
find contentment
in ourselves, it is
useless to seek it
elsewhere.
La Rochefoucauld,
Francois De
The greatest
wealth is to live
content with little,
for there is never
want where
the mind is
satisfied.
Lucretius

19. 14
It is not the man who
has too little, but the
man who craves more,
that is poor.
Seneca
Be happy with what
you have and are, be
generous with both,
and you won't have to
hunt for happiness.
William E. Gladstone
The End May you find contentment
in the mind
18

20. 3 Coping With Stress 15
I have come to know that, according to a world health
report, the main health problem by the year 2020 will be
mental illness, particularly mental depression. It is an irony
that, despite all our great scientific achievements and
technological was a child of six, I used hasponder become
Ever since I advancements, mankind to not on the
happier and more peaceful in exist in humanofconditions. It
tremendous disparities that the mind. One my Dhamma
friends, a on in my life, when I that theto learn and cases of
was later psychiatrist told me started number of practise
people with psychological problems and shed on these
the Dhamma that some light was mental illnesses
like schizophrenia, depression, neurosis did a other mental
philosophical issues. Some years ago, I and Power Point
disorders seems to on on the rise and they strike more and
presentation based be the thoughts that puzzled me when I
more young. The people inwas to help make us reflect on
was younger objective their twenties and thirties.
Stress appears the be one of are, The Four Noble Truths,
the Dhamma – to Way things the chief factors triggering
mental illnesses and Orders, The Law of and this isEffect,
The Five Universal health problems Cause and even
affectingand Rebirth, The Sixhave a friend living in Kuala
Kamma young children. I Realms etc.
Lumpur whose son, a primary school student once suffered
from very severe gastroenteritis problems. The parents
brought him to consult a prominent gastroenteritis specialist.
The doctor told my friend that the causative factor for the
child’s terrible medical condition was stress and something
got to be done about this. The poor young child was leading
a most stressful life in a well-known vernacular school. He
had to leave home for school early in the morning and could
only return home past 6 in the evening. He had to cope with
lots of school and homework, additional classes and many
extracurricular activities. Not all young children can take the
stress and demands of a life like this.
When the child was taken out of the school and placed in a
private school where there was little pressure, his medical
problems were solved and no medication was then needed.
Dhamma learning and practice will certainly also help one
cope with the many stresses and problems of modern living.

21. 16
1
Develop Right Views
• The way we see things and our attitude are very
important in determining how prone we are
towards stress. Understand important things such
as these : Nothing remains unchanged. Nobody
is perfect. Nothing is perfect. There will be always
degrees of unsatisfactoriness, conflict, problems
and pain. We can’t always get the things we
want; sometimes things we don’t want do fall
upon us.
• Right Views certainly will help us face up with the
stresses and pressures of modern life.
2

22. 17
No two individuals are the same
and they do not have the same
DON’T SET capabilities, talents and
UNREALISTIC potentialities. Targeting goals
GOALS which are beyond us will set
undue stress upon ourselves.
Eliminate over-ambition and
unrealistic expectations. Having
set realistic goals, we just need to
do our best. It does not matter if
not all goals can be realized.
It is not the end of things. We can
always try again.
3
As long as we do our best to
realize our potential, what others
achieve or attain should not
worry or trouble us. In fact, all
feelings of jealousy, envy and
STOP enmity are indeed stressful. It
would be very good and positive
COMPARING
if we can rejoice at the success
WITH of others. Learn to share with
OTHERS them their joys of success. If we
get inspiration from others’
success and achievements ,
then it is positive.
4

23. 18
LEARN TO It is a fact of life that sometimes
ACCEPT we meet with things we don’t
want and don’t meet with things
INEVITABLE we want. Everybody
THINGS experiences this. Learn to
accept things more wisely, with
calmness and equanimity. Of
course, this takes practice and
constant reflection. Our
thinking, reactions and attitudes
don’t just change overnight.
Have patience – allow time for
our wisdom to grow and
develop.
5
Make Decisions When You Need To
Indecisiveness very often leads to states
of tension--anxiety , restlessness,
insomnia and other problems can set in.
Have the courage to decide after having
considered all aspects of the issue or
problem, the pros and cons. Of course,
there is always an element of uncertainty
and we may err. Take that decision and
be with it ! What is the worst scenario ?
We make a mistake. So what ? We can
perhaps learn a valuable lesson of life
and we can rise again ! 6

24. 19
No one is free from problems.
Faced with a problem, take time THINK
to think and analyze the PROBLEMS
problem through. What is the THROUGH
actual problem ? What are the
causes of this problem ? What
steps can I or should I take to
resolve the problem ?
Having come out with a strategy
or plan, then we must ensure
that we ourselves implement or
execute the plan.
7
We can land ourselves into a real
mess and get stressed if we don’t
care to plan and organize the PLAN
things we do. More mishaps, AND
accidents and error are liable to ORGANIZE
occur bringing regret, remorse
and tension. When we learn to be
more neat, orderly, systematic and
organized , our work environment
becomes better and our mental
states improve.
8

25. 20
Don’t rush, hurry and worry. TAKE ONE
The mind cannot handle so THING
many things at one go. Faced
with many tasks at hand, AT A TIME
learn to do or take one thing
at a time and doing that thing
mindfully is important. Too
many people get stressed up
because they try to do too
many things at one time.
Remember : Even super
computers can and do break
down.
9
9
Procrastinating things and
doing things at the last
moment generate
unnecessary stress. We
tense up if we have to work
against the clock to meet
deadlines. Our effectiveness
and efficiency can slide and
our physical and mental AVOID
health can be adversely PROCRASTINATION
affected. Learn to schedule
your time and work .
Procrastination is a bad habit
that needs to be got rid of.
10
10

26. 21
When we are faced with
problems that we cannot
DON’
DON’T
resolve, it is good to talk BOTTLE UP
things over with our
parents, teachers, FEELINGS
friends and counselors.
No man is an island.
Sometimes we need to
open up or get the load
off our chests. We must
learn to let go negative
thoughts and feelings
that weigh us down. Our
minds will then become
clear and our hearts
light. 11
REST
ADEQUATELY
We are not machines. After hours of work or
study we need breaks or rests. The body that is
weary or exhausted and the mind that is
fatigued cannot function properly or efficiently.
A study program or schedule must incorporate
into it periods of rest. Rest allows the body and
mind to be recharged and be ready to take on
the coming tasks and challenges.
12

27. 22
EXERCISE REGULARLY
Physical exercises are indeed great stress
relievers. Be it walking, jogging,
swimming or playing a game, a work-out
can work wonders to make us feel fresh,
alert, energetic and positive. People in
sedentary jobs or students who do long
hours of academic study in particular
need to do physical exercises regularly to
maintain their physical and mental health.
13
HAVE RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES AND HOBBIES
All work and no play makes Jack
a dull boy. How very true this is !
There is always a time for play no
matter how busy we are. Take
that holiday that you need and
pursue that hobby you have
always wanted. Stop making that
excuse “No Time” when in actual
fact we want to win that ‘Rat
Race’ and just cannot let go.
Beware ! There is a heavy price to
pay. We may be stressed out of
14
action.

28. 23
TAKE A BALANCED DIET
Nutrition plays an important part for our
physical and mental health. Remember
the saying, “Health is more important than
wealth.” When we fall sick , oftentimes
we feel down, upset and depressed. We
have to ensure that we take regular meals
following sound nutritional principles.
Beware of fatty, sugary and junk food .
HAVE A SENSE OF HUMOR
If we develop a sense of humor, we can learn
not to take things too seriously. This can
greatly help to reduce tension. Laughter is
indeed a tremendous stress antidote. Enjoy
yourself reading a good humor book , watching
a comedy movie or video and cracking jokes
with your friends. You will be surprised that
indeed “Laughter is the best Medicine for
many an ‘illness’.
16

29. 24
LEND A HELPING HAND
Arnold Bennett once said, “ The best cure for
worry, depression, melancholy, brooding, is to go
deliberately forth and try to lift with one’s
sympathy, the gloom of somebody else.” A
reaching out to others in need reduces self-
centeredness. The more we cut the ‘self’ the less
stress the self can feel. A great sense of peace and
happiness has come to many who devote their lives
in selfless charity work for others.
17
THINK GOOD THOUGHTS
Negative thoughts that arise in our minds
should be constantly watched and cast out.
They bring us down. Thoughts of greed,
attachment should be replaced by generosity,
charity; anger, aversion, ill-will by love and
compassion. The habit of wishing others well
and making positive affirmations such as I am
happy, I am peaceful, I can succeed, I am well
and healthy and so on can go a long way to
improve our mental health.
18

30. 25
PRACTICE RELAXATION TECHNIQUES
From time to time and particularly when we feel
stressed or pressured, the practice of good
relaxation techniques can help greatly. Learn to
watch your breath ; take deep breaths and exhale
slowly. Listening to music, reading, practicing Yoga,
Tai Chi and so on are wonderful relaxation
techniques . Meditation and visualization techniques
where we picture ourselves relaxed in peaceful,
serene and beautiful places like a beach, garden or
a mountain are proven methods to reduce stress.
19
May You Be
Free From
All Stress
When You
REALIZE
What Is
Best!
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
20

31. 26
4 o Charge…A Lesson To Ponder In Life
On ‘gratitude' The Buddha ( in Angutara Nikaya 2.31 – 32 )
once said, "I tell you, monks, there are two people who are
not easy to repay. Which two? Your mother and father.
Even if you were to carry your mother on one shoulder and
your father Ion theaother shoulder I used to ponder onwere
Ever since was child of six, for 100 years, and the
to look afterdisparities anointing, massaging, conditions. It
tremendous them by that exist in human bathing, and
rubbing theirin my life, when I started defecate and practise
was later on limbs, and they were to to learn and urinate
right Dhamma that some light you would not in that
the there [on your shoulders], was shed on these
way pay or repay your parents…Why is did a Power Point
philosophical issues. Some years ago, I that? Mother and
father do much for on thechildren. They puzzled me when I
presentation based their thoughts that care for them, they
nourish them, they introduceto them make this reflect on
was young. The objective was help to us world.”
Today in this ratthe Way things are,world, we read or Truths,
the Dhamma – race, materialistic The Four Noble hear of
an increasing numberOrders, The Law of Causeor abandon
The Five Universal of children who neglect and Effect,
their aged parents. Some Six Realmsyear, a local Buddhist
Kamma and Rebirth, The time last etc.
monk asked me to put up on our notice board a newspaper
cutting of a terrible case of abandoned parents in Malaysia.
The aged parents had transferred all their property and
possessions to their married son who subsequently
abandoned them; the poor aged parents had to seek shelter
on the ground area of an old flat not inhabited by residents.
Shocking, but true. I knew of a family consisting of the old
mother who had six grown-up children. The father had died
some years earlier. Sad to say, the aged mother was ‘kicked’
around like a football from one child to another. The
children considered the mother a real burden and were most
unwilling to support or look after her. None wanted to give
financial support. I tried to speak to some of the children but
it was no easy task. They had all sorts of excuses.
Reluctantly, some of the children ‘rotated’ the mother
between their homes. Before long, the poor miserable and
dejected mother passed away. Talk about filial piety…

32. O CHARGE
A Lesson
To Ponder
In Life
A mother was fixing supper for the family.
Her little son came running in quite excitedly.
He handed her a paper
with words of writing.
The mother took the
paper and started
reading.

33. The boy had written in
big handwriting :
“$2 for doing the
dish washing.
$ 1 for making my
bed this week .
For running errands,
$ 2 I seek .
$ 2 for sweeping
the floor .
My other friends
asked for much more .

34. $ 5 for my good report card , Mummy !
Clearing our garden - $ 3 is due for me.
So Mummy, you can
see very clearly
You owe me quite a big
sum of money.”
The mother looked at
him standing there
expectantly.
A thousand memories
flashed through her
mind instantly.

35. She picked up the
paper and
turned it over.
The words she wrote
would make you think
and ponder.
For the 9 months I carried you,
growing inside me, O CHARGE.
For the nights I sat
with you, doctored
you, prayed for
you, O CHARGE.

36. For the time and
the tears,
And the cost
through the years,
O CHARGE.
For the nights
filled with
dread, and the
worries ahead,
O CHARGE.
For advice and
knowledge and the
cost of your
College,
O CHARGE.

37. For the toys, food and
clothes and for wiping
your nose,
O CHARGE.
Son, when you add it all up, the full cost of
my LOVE is , O CHARGE.”
CHARGE.”
When the boy finished
reading, tears welled in
his eyes.
He realized one lesson
in life –
Love bears no Price.

38. To his mother, he said,
“I sure do love you,
Mummy. I’m sorry.”
Then he took the pen
and in big letters,
he wrote
“ALL PAID FULLY.”
Brothers and Sisters :
There’re more things
There’
than just MO EY
To live life meaningfully
and joyously.
The End
May You Be Well And Happy !
With Metta,
Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin

39. 34
5 12 Causes Of Downfall
When we meet with misfortune or any negative happening,
we tend to think that the outside world or other people are
the causes. We often forget that when we extend out the
Ever since I was a child of six, I used to ponder on our
pointer finger to blamethat exist in human conditions. It
tremendous disparities others, three fingers are pointing
right later on in my Oftentimes,I our ‘ill-luck’ orand practise
was at ourselves. life, when started to learn downfall is
due to our own doing…sheer laziness, greed, heedlessness,
the Dhamma that some light was shed on these
unwholesome issues. Some years vices I sucha as smoking,
philosophical sensual pursuits, ago, did Power Point
drinking, gambling on the thoughts that puzzled me our past
presentation based and other bad habits. Of course, when I
kamma playsThe objective was to help make uslife. People
was young. a part in determining our present reflect on
the Dhamma – the Way things are, talents, Noble status,
come into the world with differentThe Four wealth,Truths,
health conditions and so on. But this Cause and Effect,
The Five Universal Orders, The Law of is no excuse to
complainand Rebirth, The Six Realms etc. for our lives and
Kamma and lament. We are responsible
the things we do now can and will change the Dhamma
With understanding and some realization of these course of
things. Ajahn Brahmavamso gives a very good analogy of
points we can learn to live in righteousness, harmony and
the two women out withbakeNatural Laws. first woman, a
peace in accordance to the a cake. The
wealthy one, lived all the good things to bake the cake: the
A life that is has meaningfully within oneself and also
best flour, butter, refined sugar, most worthy life.
serving those in need, would be a excellent fruits and other
ingredients. But this woman is careless and has a bad
attitude; she messes up the recipe, does a sloppy baking and
her cake turns out horrible despite having all the best
ingredients and kitchen conditions. On the other hand, the
second woman, coming from a poor background has to
make do with second - rate ingredients for her cake
baking… coarse flour, rough sugar, mediocre fruits and
cheap butter; she just has a simple oven. She sieves and
suns the flour; she pounds the sugar and puts in lots of
effort, care and love in baking the cake. Her cake turns out
to be a most wonderful one! The message is clear. We must
stop blaming external factors for our sorry state of affairs
and failure. Dhamma learning and practice entail patience,
determination and effort. Only then will we see and enjoy
the fruits when they ripen in due course of time.

40. Dhamrma
Must
Have!
1
PARABHAVA SUTTA
The Buddha’s
Discourse on
DOWNFALL
The 1st Cause of Downfall
Easily known is the
progressive one, Dhamma
easily known
he who declines.
He who loves Dharma
progresses; he who is
averse to it, declines.

41. The 2nd Cause of Downfall
The wicked are
dear to him, with
the virtuous he
finds no delight,
he prefers the
creed of the
wicked.
The 3rd Cause of Downfall
Being fond
of sleep,
fond of
company,
indolent,
lazy and
irritable
The 4th Cause of Downfall
Though being well-to-do, not to support father and
mother who are old and past their youth

42. The 5th Cause of Downfall
To deceive by
falsehood a
brahmin or
ascetic or any
other
mendicant
The 6th Cause of Downfall
To have much wealth and ample gold and
food, but to enjoy one's luxuries alone
The 7th Cause of Downfall
To be proud of birth, of wealth or clan,
and to despise one's own kinsmen

43. The 8th Cause of Downfall
To be a rake, a drunkard, a gambler, and
to squander all one earns
The 9th Cause of Downfall
Not to be contented with one's own wife,
and to be seen with
harlots and the wives of others
The 10th Cause of Downfall
Being past one's youth, to take a young wife
and to be unable to sleep for jealousy of her

44. The 11th Cause of Downfall
To place in authority a woman given
to drink and squandering,
or a man of a like behaviour
The 12th Cause of Downfall
To be of
noble birth,
Must
with vast be in
Charge
ambition and
of slender
means, and
to crave for
rulership
The End
Unskillful speech, action and mind
will cause a person to decline.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin

45. 40
6 Twisted Thinking And Mental Suffering
Our local Buddhist Association is non-sectarian; what is
most important is the teaching and promotion of the
Buddha-Dhamma, be it in the Theravada, Mahayana or
Vajarana traditions. I have good Dhamma friends in the
Ever since I was aChanting, Sutta six, I and
Chinese Chanting, Pali child of Classes used
topondeonthtremendous the early 1990s, there were some
Meditation Group. In disparities that exist in human
conditions. It was later on in my life, whenthe twisted and
small nagging problems arising out of I started to learn
and practise the Dhamma that some light of the different
deluded thinking of some members was shed on these
philosophicala Committee Member, Iago, I did a Power
groups. As issues. Some years noticed uncalled for
Pointpresentation based‘Chinese thoughts that puzzled me
remarks such as: “The on the Soldiers’ only chant and
when I was young. The“The ‘English to help make us
don’t help much”; objective was Soldiers’ are
reflect on the think they –know Waythe Dhamma”; “The
proud…they Dhamma the all things are, The Four
Noble Truths, The Fiveother than sitting stillThe Law of
meditators do nothing Universal Orders, like stone
Cause and EffectJust because these critics might have
statues” etc.
Kamma and Rebirth,individuals with personal traits not to
encountered some The Six Realms etc.
their liking, they branded the whole group in a bad light.
They failed to see the good points of other people. “It’s
easy to see the faults of others but one’s own, one hides
like a fowler in disguise.” This is a saying from the
Buddha in The Dhammapada …how very true it is!
Deluded or twisted thinking needs to be checked and
corrected; it can bring much conflict and relationship
problems. Much Dukkha arises in the person and also
others. Twisted thinking oftentimes can be traced to
poor habitual conditioning at an earlier age or in
previous lives, ego, jealousy, ill-will, anger, enmity and
a sheer lack of understanding and practice of Dhamma
to see the way things really are. Through the practice of
selfless charity, loving-kindness, Dhamma study and
reflection and Vipassana meditation, one can gradually
gain insight and one’s thinking becomes clearer and
wiser and the heart grows to be more compassionate.

46. James Allen
James Allen
# 1 Thinking, regretting or
feeling guilty about the
past.
Reflection
Train the mind to be
more mindful of the
Present.
GUILT

47. # 2 Speculating and
worrying about
things in the Future.
Reflection
Watch the mind when it
runs into the Future. Bring
it back.
# 3 Thinking of and seeing
only the ‘black spots
(faults ) of another and
failing to see his ‘white
spots’ FALLpoints) Abstracts
(good 2006
Reflection
In every ‘bad’ person there is
Arial Font Family
some good and in every ‘good’
person there is some bad.
# 4 Reacting negatively
to the criticisms or words
of others.
Reflection
Why should one let
others control one’s
inner mental peace?

48. # 5 Thinking of and
dwelling upon one’s
mistakes or points
of weakness.
Reflection
Acknowledge the mistakes, learn
from them and move on. Let go of the
negative thoughts.
# 6 Expecting only
positive things to
happen all the time.
Reflection
Gain and loss, pleasure and
pain, praise and blame, fame and
dishonor are inevitable.
# 7 Always thinking ‘Should be
like this’, ‘shouldn’t be like that’,
‘I can’t accept this’.
Reflection
Acceptance of things positively
reduces mental suffering. Learn
to forgive and let go.

49. # 8 Labeling
another as ‘bad’,
‘foolish’, ‘hateful’,
‘problematic’
Reflection
It’s not the person who is ‘bad’, ‘foolish’
or ‘proud’ but it is his unskillful action.
Cultivate forgiveness.
# 9 Thinking centered
on Ego and Self-
interest
Reflection
Let us learn to think less of ‘I’,
‘My’ and ‘Mine’ but more of
‘We’, ‘Ours’, ‘Us’ and ‘Others’.
# 10 Thinking
JEALOUS
jealous thoughts
of others’ success
and happiness.
Reflection
Let us practice sympathetic or altruistic
joy rejoicing at the happiness
of others.

50. # 11 Thoughts of
unreasonably high
expectations of people
or things
Reflection
Thoughts of Compassion and
Contentment bring peace and joy
to the mind
# 12 Always
thinking and
desiring things
and having little
spirit of charity
Reflection
Giving and Generosity will lead to
spiritual joy and peace.
The End
Views, Thoughts and Aspirations
of the Right Kind will lead
to Happiness and Peace of Mind
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin

51. 7 The Farmer’s Donkey 46
The life story of Helen Keller ( 1880 – 1968 ) is a most inspiring
one. At the age of 19 months, she contracted an illness that left
her deaf and I was Despite all the oddsused obstacles she faced,
Ever since blind. a child of six, I and to ponder on the
she rose above all the hardship and challenges to become It
tremendous disparities that exist in human conditions. a
prolific Americanmy life, awhen I started to learn and practise
was later on in author, political activist and lecturer. She was
the first deaf and blind person tolight a was shed Arts degree.
the Dhamma that some earn Bachelor of on these
There is a saying, “Quitters never win; winners never quit.” There
philosophical issues. Some years ago, I did a Power Point
is a good life lesson we can learn from this. When faced with
presentation based on the thoughts that puzzled me when I
problems, obstructions and setbacks, many of us give up what we
set out to do. We lament over was ‘bad luck’ or make reflect on
was young. The objective our to help make us all sorts of
excuses and rationalizationthings are, our failure. Noble Truths,
the Dhamma – the Way to justify The Four Someone once
said, “Failure is not failure; failure is failing to Cause after Effect,
The Five Universal Orders, The Law of get up and a fall.”
Kamma A Edison, an American inventor, held more than 1,000
Thomas and Rebirth, The Six Realms etc.
patents for inventions andhis name. Among his many quotes was
With understanding in some realization of these Dhamma
this: “I have notlearn to I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t
points we can failed. live in righteousness, harmony and
work.” in accordance with the Natural Laws.
peace He often commented that he started work where the last
man left off. lived meaningfully within oneself and also and
A life that is Such an attitude of patience, determination
perseverance should be would be aby us. worthy life. thinking
serving those in need, cultivated most His positive
was truly remarkable. Obstacles did not sink him into defeat.
Over the last 24 years at our local Buddhist Association, I have
seen too many of our members and devotees slacken or giving up
in their practice of Dhamma, particularly in outreach work, sutta
or Dhamma study and meditation. Intellectually, many of us
know the importance and urgency of walking with diligence the
spiritual path; we even voice out: ‘Life is uncertain; death is
certain. The Buddha urged us to strive on diligently with
mindfulness.’ But the irony is that we do not find ourselves
practicing and sacrificing. We are ever so busy and caught up in
sensual pursuits. Our mind, so defiled with ego and delusion, is so
good in giving excuses. “Oh, I can never meditate.” ( This is
dangerous negative conditioning!) “Oh, I am sorry…I am too
busy to help in the many Dana services and outreach work.” ( But
we do find time for shopping, going for tours, watching TV for
hours, hooked on the Internet, making money and so on. ) Mara is
indeed ‘laughing’ at his conquests! We need to reflect seriously.

52. One day a farmer's donkey fell down into a
well. The animal cried piteously for hours
as the farmer tried to figure out a way
to get him out.
Finally the farmer decided it
was probably impossible and
the animal was old and the
well was dry anyway, so it
just wasn't worth it to try and
retrieve the donkey.

53. So the farmer asked his neighbors to come
over and help him cover up the well. They all
grabbed shovels and began
to shovel dirt into the well.
At first, when the
donkey realized
what was happening
he cried horribly.
Then, to everyone's
amazement, he
quieted down and let
out some happy
brays.
A few shovel
loads later, the
farmer looked
down the well to
see what was
happening and
was astonished
at what he saw.

54. With every shovel of dirt that hit his
back, the donkey was shaking it off
and taking a step up. (Shifting)
As the farmer's neighbors continued to shovel
dirt on top of the animal, he continued to shake
it off and take a step up. Pretty soon, to
everyone's amazement, the donkey stepped up
over the edge of the well and trotted off!
Moral: Life is going to shovel dirt on you, all
kinds of dirt. The trick to getting out of the well
is to shake it off and take a step up.

55. Moral : Every adversity can be turned into a stepping
stone. The way to get out of the deepest well is by never
giving up but by shaking yourself off
and taking a step up.
Moral : In life, what happens to you isn't
nearly as important as what you do about it
or how you react to the happening.
The End
In the face of conflict
and adversity,
may we respond and
act calmly and wisely.
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin

56. 8 14 Steps To Conquer The Worry Habit 51
Most people are affected by anxiety, worry or fear. Some
worry household bills of all and one need to pay monthly.
hefty about a thousand sorts we things…their health,
studies, family, career, finance, unnecessary commitments, and
When we are all burdened with relationships, sicknesses we
have little time for so may important things that really matter in
death. Worry has driven many people to insomnia, illnesses,
life – learning about and developing the mind, showing kindness
depression and even suicide.the needy,anxiety and fear have
to others, rendering services to Worry, spending time with our
their ones and cultivating our spirituality. following factors:
loved roots in one or more of the
* A wrong habitual if they will notconditioning since young
We lead our lives as thinking and end; we fail to realize that
* Being attacheddeath is certain.
life is uncertain and to wealth, possessions and loved ones
* Having the wrong attitude andtremendous.life’s meaning
The gratitude we owe our parents is views of It’s indeed sad
* Amany children abandon their parentsfear of losing attention
that strong sense of ego leading to or give little name or
power to their parents. Reason? They are in deep ‘busy-ness’.
and care
* Having and gratitude are among the virtues we need to
Filial piety an untrained or uncultivated mind that often
dwells if the past or projects itself and the future
practice in we wish to realize true happinessinto peace.
* Being too self-centered and lacking in a concern for
others’ welfare; there is little generosity and outreach work
* Lack of spiritual development; there is strong delusion
I have found the following bits of advice and thoughts
useful in helping one to overcome anxiety, worry and fear:
1 Why worry? It saps your energy. If there is a problem and
something can be done about it, then why worry? If nothing
can be done about it, then why worry? The problem will
come and go and the wise one embraces it peacefully.
2 othing is permanent; everything comes to pass, so why
worry? What’s the worst scenario? Death? Well, everyone
of us has to die one day and we will be reborn again!
3 Worry arises when there is negative speculative thinking
about the future. The mind has to be trained to bring it more
to the OW. Let go of the past; do not let your mind get
sucked into the future. The future is uncertain for all.
The late Ven. Dr K. Sri Dhammananda, wrote a most useful
book “Why Worry!” (‘Practical advice from the Buddhist
teachings to live your life without stress and worry’)

57. 14 STEPS
TO CONQUER
THE WORRY HABIT 1
Keep busy, so your mind doesn’t have
time to think about worrisome things.
Don’t let small things upset
you - they aren’t worth it

58. Accept the inevitable - don’t try
to fight or change it
Consider the real importance of the thing
you are about to worry about – nothing is
certain in life we can’t be sure
of the future
Apply these common expressions
- Don’t cry over spilt milk
- Don’t saw sawdust
- What’s done is done

59. Have the Right View and Attitude
- There are ups and downs in life
- Nothing is permanent
- Remember: ‘This too will pass’
Count Your Blessings –
not your troubles
Forget yourself by becoming
more interested in others

60. Learn and practice some good
relaxation techniques
Associate with good, wise
and positive friends
Spend more time to reach out
to others in need

61. Replace any negative thoughts
with positive ones
Do not allow your mind to dwell
in the past or future. Be Present.
Develop and practice mindfulness –
observe mental states that arise and fall

62. The End
DON’
DON’T WORRY
BE HAPPY
STAY HEALTHY
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
16
* Do not anticipate trouble or worry about what
may never happen. Keep in the sunlight.
~Benjamin Franklin
* That the birds of worry and care fly over your
head, this you cannot change, but that they build
nests in your hair, this you can prevent.
~Chinese Proverb
* There are two days in the week about which and
upon which I never worry... Yesterday and
Tomorrow. ~Robert Jones Burdette
* Blessed is the person who is too busy to worry in
the daytime and too sleepy to worry at night.
~Author Unknown

63. 9 Reflections On Gratitude 58
Many of us have given some help to a person in need. We
should not expect anything in return. On the other hand, it is
the duty of the receiver to have gratitude. Gratitude is an
important virtue to be taught and inculcated in the young for
their good character and self-developmentto ponder on the
Ever since I was a child of six, I used as they grow up.
During my teaching years, I exist in human conditions. It
tremendous disparities that stood as a financial guarantor
for a later on in my life, when Iwho applied for and practise
was number of poor students started to learn scholarships
the Dhamma that some light was shed on these
or loans to help them further their tertiary education.
In the early 1980s, I Some years ago, Ipoor a Power in my
philosophical issues. had a bright but did student Point
class. I was the Form teacher. Afterthat puzzled he went on
presentation based on the thoughts his STPM, me when I
to a local university. One evening,help make us phone call
was young. The objective was to I received a reflect on
from him telling me ofthingsfinancial difficulties and his
the Dhamma – the Way his are, The Four Noble Truths,
intention to quit the university. He had already and Effect,
The Five Universal Orders, The Law of Cause completed
the first year Rebirth, The Six Realmsasked him to see me at
Kamma and with excellent results. I etc.
my home. He came the following day and I helped him to
apply for a state study loan. His application was successful;
he got a full loan and I stood as a guarantor for him. So
everything seemed to turn out well; I got no news or contact
from the student for four years or so. I gathered from a
couple of his Form six classmates that he had graduated
with brilliant results and was then working in a good
managerial position in a private company in a big city.
A few years after the student had graduated and worked, I
started getting letters from the state government
legal officers asking that I settled the loan as a guarantor for the
student had not done any repaying and he could not be traced. His
home address had been changed; I too could not trace him. Well,
I thought I had no choice but to pay the owed amount.
Fortunately, one day I chanced upon a classmate of the student
and managed to get the contact of the ‘errant’ student. Through
phone and letters, I eventually made him see that it was his moral
responsibility to settle the loan. I did not say he had no gratitude.

64. Reflections On
GRATITUDE
At times our own light goes
out and is rekindled by a
spark from another person.
Each of us has cause to
think with deep gratitude of
those who have lighted the Albert
Schweitzer
flame within us.
One looks back with
appreciation to the brilliant
teachers, but with gratitude
to those who touched our
human feelings. The
curriculum is so much
Carl Jung necessary raw material, but
warmth is the vital element
for the growing plant and for
the soul of the child.

65. A thankful heart is
not only the greatest
virtue, but the
parent of all the
other virtues.
Cicero
If you pick up a starving dog
and make him prosperous,
he will not bite you. This is
the principal difference
between a dog and a man .
Mark Twain
Let's be grateful for those who
give us happiness; they are the
charming gardeners who make
our soul bloom.
Marcel Proust

66. Reflect upon your present
blessings, of which every man
has plenty; not on your past
misfortunes of which
all men have some.
Charles Dickens
Many times a day I realize how much my
own life is built on the labors of my
fellowmen, and how earnestly I must exert
myself in order to give in return as much
as I have received. Albert Einstein
Gratitude is a duty which
ought to be paid, but which
none have a right to expect.
Rousseau

67. o one who achieves
success does so without
acknowledging the help of
others. The wise and confident
acknowledge this help with
gratitude.
Alfred orth Whitehead
"Gratitude is a fruit of
great cultivation; you do not
find it among gross people"
Samuel Johnson
One can never pay in
gratitude; one can only
pay "in kind" somewhere
else in life.
Anne Morrow Lindbergh

68. Sometimes we need to remind ourselves that
thankfulness is indeed a virtue.
William John Bennett
It is another's The End
fault if he be ungrateful,
but it is mine if I do not
give. To find one
thankful man, I will
oblige a great many that
are not so.
Seneca
* "Good men and bad men differ radically. Bad men
never appreciate kindness shown them, but wise men
appreciate and are grateful. Wise men try to express
their appreciation and gratitude by some return of
kindness, not only to their benefactor, but to
everyone else." The Buddha
* "Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn't
learn a lot today, at least we learned a little, and if we
didn't learn a little, at least we didn't get sick, and if
we got sick, at least we didn't die; so, let us all be
thankful." The Buddha

69. 10 Timeless TIME Quotes 64
One of the reasons I dread attending a wedding invitation
dinner is the utter lack of respect for people’s time. Rarely
do wedding Idinners start punctually used to what is printed
Ever since was a child of six, I despite ponder on the
in the invitation card. Guests exist in human conditions. as
tremendous disparities that are made to wait for as long It
one to two hours before when I started to learn and practise
was later on in my life, the first dish is served. Many suffer
the wait in silence, some light was shed on these
the Dhamma that being unable to even carry out
meaningful conversations with friends I did asame table as
philosophical issues. Some years ago, in the Power Point
presentation based on the thoughts that puzzled me when I
the karaoke blasts away in an atmosphere of din and dis-
ease. young. The objective was could be put to better use.
was Imagine the time wasted to help make us reflect on
Certain people have the bad habit of notFour Noble Truths,
the Dhamma – the Way things are, The being punctual for
any functions or programs. Over the yearsCause and Effect,
The Five Universal Orders, The Law of of Dhammaduta
work at our Rebirth, The Six Realms etc. same members
Kamma and Association, I noticed that the
and students are habitually late for Dhammathese Dhamma
With understanding and some realization of talks, chanting
points we can learn to live in righteousness, harmony and
or meditation, meetings, classes and other activities. Isn’t it
an irony that, on one with the Naturalteachings emphasize on
peace in accordance hand Dhamma Laws.
being mindful and meaningfully within oneself and also yet
A life that is lived having consideration for others, and
‘practitioners’ in need, would be a most worthy life. on time?
serving those are unmindful about being always
Bad habits are indeed difficult to eradicate but that is no
excuse. Determination, discipline and making strong
resolutions would be able to rid ourselves of bad habits.
In my community guidance classes, I always stress on the
importance or punctuality. Of course, I too have to set the
example and I usually would begin lessons punctually
according to schedules. To me, not to do so would be rather
unfair to those who practice punctuality. Why should they
waste their time on account of mindless ones who don’t
seem to have respect for the teacher or their classmates?
When one values time and manages it well, one can do so
many positive and constructive things that benefit oneself
and others. Good time management would also enable one
to have time for recreation, ample rest and breaks.
May we realize the importance of time and use it well.

70. 1
Time is free, but it's
priceless. You can't
own it, but you can use it.
You can't keep
it, but you can spend it.
Once you've lost it
you can never get it back.
Harvey MacKay
Time is more valuable than money. You
can get more money, but you cannot
get more time. Jim Rohn

71. Time is the coin of your life. It is the only coin you have,
and only you can determine how it will be spent. Be
careful lest you let other people spend it for you.
Carl Sandburg
Time is too slow for those who wait, too swift for
those who fear, too long for those who grieve, too
short for those who rejoice, but for those who love,
time is eternity. Henry Van Dyke
Don't say you don't have enough time. You have
exactly the same number of hours per day that
were given to Helen Keller, Pasteur,
Michaelangelo, Mother Teresa, Leonardo da Vinci,
Thomas Jefferson, and Albert Einstein.
H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

72. Much may be done in
those little shreds and
patches of time which
every day produces,
and which most men
throw away. Charles
Caleb Colton
All that really belongs
to us is time; even he
who has nothing else
has that.
Baltasar Gracian
Time cools, time clarifies; no mood can be
maintained quite unaltered through the course
of hours. Mark Twain

73. This time, like all
times, is a very good
one, if we but know
what to do with it.
Ralph Waldo
Emerson
I don't think of the past. The only thing
that matters is the everlasting present.
W. Somerset Maugham
Ordinary people think
merely of
spending time.
Great people think of
using it.
Author Unknown

74. It’s not enough to be busy, so are the ants.
The question is, what are we busy about?
Henry David Thoreau
It’s how we spend our
time here and now,
that really matters. If
you are fed up with the
way you have come to
interact with time,
change it.
Marcia Wieder
Realize that now, in this
moment of time, you are
creating. You are creating your
next moment.
That is what’s real.
Sara Paddison

75. Lost wealth may be
replaced by industry,
lost knowledge by study,
lost health by
temperance or medicine,
but lost time is
gone forever.
Samuel Smiles
The End
He lives long that lives well; and time
misspent is not lived but lost.
Thomas Fuller
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
* Time is what we want most, but what we use
worst. William Penn
* The common man is not concerned about the
passage of time, the man of talent is driven by it.
Schopenhauer
* Time = life; therefore, waste your time and waste
of your life, or master your time and master your
life. Alan Lakein

76. 11 Right And Wrong 71
During my schooldays, I used to ponder a lot on the issue of
ethics and morality. What is Right and Wrong? Is there an
innatesince I was a child us six, I is absolutely right and
Ever conscience telling of what used to ponder on the
moral? What are the consequences human conditions. It
tremendous disparities that exist in of breaching moral
laws…a punishment after death? I sought answers practise
was later on in my life, when I started to learn and through
booksDhamma that some and temples. I shedtaught about
the and visiting churches light was was on these
sin and the laws of a Some years ago, I did a Power would
philosophical issues. supreme heavenly Being who Point
judge us afterbased on the thoughts that puzzled me Heaven
presentation death…whether we would be sent to when I
or Hell in accordance with the sins help make us reflectThe
was young. The objective was to we have committed. on
ideaDhamma – theone life and then be eternally rewarded in
the of living just Way things are, The Four Noble Truths,
Heaven or condemnedOrders, The Law of Cause and Effect,
The Five Universal to everlasting Hell, to me, was not at
all logical, reasonableThejust. It was only when I came upon
Kamma and Rebirth, or Six Realms etc.
the Dhamma, with and some realization of these effect and
With understanding clear teachings on cause, Dhamma
conditions, can learn to live in righteousness, harmony and
points we the Five Universal Orders, Kamma, rebirth and
dependent origination thatthe Natural Laws. about ethics and
peace in accordance with all my questions
morality were resolved. In the Kalama Sutta, and also my
A life that is lived meaningfully within oneself one of
favorite those in need, would be a most worthy life.
serving Buddhist Discourses, the Buddha said, “When you
know for yourselves that, 'These qualities are unskillful;
these qualities are blameworthy; these qualities are
criticized by the wise; these qualities, when adopted and
carried out, lead to harm and to suffering' — then you
should abandon them. When you know for yourselves that,
'These qualities are skillful; these qualities are blameless;
these qualities are praised by the wise; these qualities, when
adopted and carried out, lead to welfare and to happiness'
— then you should enter and remain in them.”
Any action of the mind, body or speech which is rooted in
greed, attachment, ill-will, anger, hatred, ego and delusion
is unwholesome and would have its potential negative
effects. Actions motivated by generosity, a letting go, love,
kindness, compassion and wisdom would be wholesome and
would bear positive fruits in this life or lives to come.

77. RIGHT
and
WRONG
When a Zen Master held a long
Meditation Retreat, pupils from many
parts of Japan came to attend.
One day, one of
the pupils was
caught stealing
by the other
pupils.

78. The matter was reported to the Master with
the request that the culprit be expelled.
The Zen Master chose to ignore the case.
The pupils were very disappointed.
ot long later, the same pupil was caught
in a similar act of stealing.
BAG

79. This angered the other pupils very much.
They drew up a petition asking for the
dismissal of the thief, stating that
otherwise they would all leave altogether.
When the
Master had
read the
petition, he
called everyone
before him.
“You are wise
brothers,” he told
them. “You know what
is Right and what is
Wrong.”

80. “You may go somewhere else to study if you wish,” the
Master continued, “but this poor brother does not
even know Right from Wrong. Who will teach him if I
do not. I am going to keep him here even if all the rest
of you leave.”
Zen
Master
A torrent of tears cleansed the face of the
brother who had stolen.
All desire to steal had vanished.
All the other pupils chose to stay on with the
Zen Master. They had realized a good degree of
Compassion and Wisdom.
Zen Master
Reflection 1
Great Spiritual Masters have real Compassion
and Wisdom. Learn and grow from them.

81. Reflection 2
Every sentient being in Samsara has the potential
to become a Buddha…when he realizes his
defilements and takes steps to remove them.
Reflection 3
In walking the Spiritual Path, one needs to
develop a non-judgmental, forgiving and
compassionate heart. o one is a ‘sinner’
beyond redemption…only his actions may be
foolish, unskillful or unwholesome.
Reflection 4
Great Dhamma teachers practise patience,
understanding, compassion and wisdom.

82. Reflection 5
Harbouring aversion, ill will, anger,
hatred and enmity weakens one’s mind.
The End
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
* Compassion is the basis of morality.
Arthur Schopenhauer
* For children to take morality seriously they must
be in the presence of adults who take morality
seriously. And with their own eyes they must see
adults take morality seriously.
William Bennett
* I reject any religious doctrine that does not appeal
to reason and is in conflict with morality.
Mohandas Gandhi
* Teach a child what is wise, that is morality. Teach
him what is wise and beautiful, that is religion!
Thomas Huxley
* The true meaning of religion is thus, not simply
morality, but morality touched by emotion.
Matthew Arnold
* Truth is certainly a branch of morality and a very
important one to society.
Thomas Jefferson

83. 12 A Short Course In Human Relations 78
One of the important factors in the Noble Eightfold Path is
Right Speech. The practice of Right Speech entails avoiding
Ever since I was a child of six, I used to ponder on the
* Lying
* Slanderingdisparities that exist in human conditions. It
tremendous
was later on in my life, when I started to learn and practise
* Using Harsh or Abusive speech
* Gossip or Frivolous Talk light was shed on these
the Dhamma that some
Being polite, issues. Some years ago, I did a Power Point
philosophical courteous and using wise speech go a long
way towards based on the thoughts that puzzled me whenis
presentation good human relations among people. This I
very important at objective school, at themake us reflectany
was young. The home, in was to help work place or on
association or – the Way things are, The Four Noble Truths,
the Dhamma society.
IThe Five case in our Orders, The Law of years ago when a
recall a Universal Association many Cause and Effect,
couple who were ourThe Six Realms etc. angry and refused
Kamma and Rebirth, members got very
With understanding and some realization of these Dhamma
to come to the Association anymore. I gathered from them
that one of our Committee members was very rudeand
points we can learn to live in righteousness, harmony and
sarcastic.accordance with the Natural Laws.Association and
peace in I apologized on behalf of the
explained some Dhamma pointswithin oneself and also
A life that is lived meaningfully about how people, caught
in conditioning, need, habits be a most worthy life. wrong
serving those in bad would and heedlessness, use
speech thereby causing hurt to others. The victims should
learn to forgive and let go; the offender should regret the
unskillful words, apologize and resolve to be more mindful
the next time, putting in great care and effort to practice
Right Speech in his interaction with other people.
I often come across people, from students to working adults
in Government departments and the private sector who do
not seem to know the basic etiquette and courtesy expected
of a civilized and cultured person. My greetings of ‘Good
Morning’, ‘Thank you’, ‘Excuse me’ etc have many a time
been responded with cold blank stares. Some of my students
do not even know how to say “Thank you” when a gift is
given to them or when a favor is done for them. They seem
to take so many things for granted or they are so ignorant.
May we all be more mindful and practice Right Speech.

84. 1
The SIX most important words (1)
“I Admit
I Made A Mistake”
The SIX most important words (2)
“May You Be Well And Happy.”

85. The FIVE most important words (1)
“You Did A Good Job.”
The FIVE most important words (2)
“I Am Grateful
To You.”
The FOUR most important words (1)
“What is Your
Opinion?”

86. The FOUR most important words (2)
“Have a Good Day!”
The THREE most important words (1)
“I Am Sorry.”
The THREE most important words (2)
“Can
I Help?”

87. The TWO most
important words (1)
“Thank You.”
The TWO most important words (2)
“Take
Care.”
The ONE most important word (1)
“ We ”

88. The ONE most important word (2)
“Please”
The LEAST important word (1)
“I”
The LEAST important word (2)
“My”

89. The End
May Our
Patience,
Love
And
Understanding
Grow!
With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
16
* Teach this triple truth to all: A generous heart,
kind speech, and a life of service and compassion are
the things which renew humanity. Buddha
* The wise ones fashioned speech with their thought,
sifting it as grain is sifted through a sieve. Buddha
* We do not need to proselytize either by our speech
or by our writing. We can only do so really with our
lives. Let our lives be open books for all to study.
Mahatma Gandhi
* Watch your manner of speech if you wish to
develop a peaceful state of mind. Start each day by
affirming peaceful, contented and happy attitudes
and your days will tend to be pleasant and successful.
orman Vincent Peale

90. 13 The A – Z of KIASU 85
I was a KIASU (“Afraid to lose”) type of person during my
schooldays right from my primary school until sixth form. I
did well academically…I topped in all school examinations
but that never really gave me real happiness and peace. My
mind sincefilled with anxiety,six, I used to ponder on that
Ever was I was a child of worry and fear…afraid the
someone else would beat me intoin human conditions. It
tremendous disparities that exist second place. Oh, how
much suffering my life, when I started to prayers in practise
was later on in I had to go through. The learn and temples
and churches didthat help. Looking back to my schooldays,
the Dhamma not some light was shed on these
Iphilosophical issues. Some years ago, I did a Power Point
prayed foolishly…to be number one academically. I was
often jealous of others’ achievements and success when I
presentation based on the thoughts that puzzled meand had
even young. The objective whento help make us reflect on
was been secretly pleased was others did not do well! At
the university,– Ithe Way things wereThe Four Noble Truths,
the Dhamma realized there are, others who were better
than me academically. I slowly began of learn life lessons.
The Five Universal Orders, The Law to Cause and Effect
Kamma and Rebirth, The Six Realms etc.
It was my ‘discovery’ of Dhamma and subsequent practice
of the Buddha’s Teachings that my life underwent a deep
transformation. My attitude towards many things changed
and I began to see the intangible things that really matter in
a person’s life. Understanding and practice of Buddhist
teachings like Dana ( Charity ), Sila ( Morality ) and
Bhavana ( Meditation ) will play a key role in bringing more
happiness, contentment and peace to one’s mind. I realized
that a KIASU type of attitude and mentality would bring
one untold mental and physical suffering. On the other hand,
the cultivation of spiritual qualities like generosity, service,
renunciation, sympathetic joy, loving-kindness, compassion,
equanimity and ‘letting go’ will bring one real peace and
freedom. Undoubtedly, walking the spiritual way of the
Noble Eightfold Path poses a challenge. Temptations to fall
into the trap of materialism and sensual pursuits are great.
However the price we have to pay by NOT walking the Way
is even greater. Immense Dukkha will await us.

91. The A – Z Of KIASU
Let us reflect on
how a Kiasu person
is conquered by
Greed, Anger and
Delusion
“I must Always win,
win!”
How much stress
will this bring ?
“I always Borrow
but never return!”
Life’s Principles
Life’
…When will he ever
learn?

92. “Wah, I have to buy because it is Cheap!”
Oh my ! She is hoarding things by the heap !
“Don’t trust
on’
anyone …that’s my
that’
philosophy.”
Ha ! He will live a
life of sheer
misery.
“Everything I must
also grab fast.”
With such craving
how long will he last?

93. “Free ! Free ! Free ! I
must have all these
things !”
Do you know what
suffering this brings ?
“If I don’t Grab first,
don’
very soon there may be
no more!”
You see such ‘Hungry
Ghosts’ everywhere –
Ghosts’
a real eyesore!
“I must Help myself
to everything
everywhere.”
Will he ever realize
the need to care
and share?

94. “I want to be FIRST
in everything.”
There’s a price to
There’
pay – real suffering.
“I can’t waste my time – I must Jump queue.”
He makes others mad with such a view.
“I must Keep
coming back for
more and more.”
more.”
There would be
pain and suffering
in store.

95. “I must have a life of
more and more
Luxury.”
He cares only for
himself and his
family.
“Don’t you see
that I Must never
ever lose face?”
face?”
He constantly
feeds his ego in
life’s mad race.
life’
“I ever give others a
helping hand.”
There are more such
people in every land.

96. “I must Outdo and
Outshine everybody.”
How can such a
person live life
peacefully ?
“I only Pay out of
necessity, not
generosity.”
Do not expect him to
perform any act of
charity.
“I will Quarrel to
make sure
I am ahead.”
ahead.”
He wouldn’t care if
wouldn’
you were alive
or dead.

97. “I have to Rush and
push to triumph in
the race!”
It won’t be long
before he’s crushed
he’
at this pace.
“I am always
Suspicious of each and
everyone.”
He will suffer if he
wants to be
SECO D TO O E.
“I believe in only Taking
… not giving.”
Such self-centredness
self-
will soon see him
grieving.

98. “Unless I get some personal
benefit, forget it.”
It must have been ages
since the last charity he did.
“I Vow that I will be
THE UMBER O E!” E!”
By hook or by crook he
would get this done !
“I am the Winner …
I take all, I take all.”
all.”
When will they know
there’s gain and loss,
rise and fall?

99. “This is not enough
… I must have
X’TRA!”
TRA!”
It does not pay to
be so greedy LAH!
“I will YELL to get
what I desire.”
Life’s Lessons are what
such people require.
Zebras are ‘KIASU’ ‘cause
KIASU’
they want to be black and
white at the same time.
Conflicts and problems
abound ‘cause too many
stress on ‘ME, MY
and MI E’ !
E’

100. The End
Peace Comes Through Wisdom And
Understanding.
May We All Attain Life’s Greatest Blessing.
Life’
With Metta,
Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin
* Whatever we treasure for ourselves separates us
from others; our possessions are our limitations.
Rabindranath Tagore
* The greatest crimes do not arise from a want of
feeling for others but from an over-sensibility for
ourselves and an over-indulgence to our own desires.
Edmund Burke
* Manifest plainness, Embrace simplicity, Reduce
selfishness, Have few desires. Lao Tzu
* Every man must decide whether he will walk in
the light of creative altruism or in the darkness of
destructive selfishness. Martin Luther King, Jr.
* The human being who lives only for himself finally
reaps nothing but unhappiness. Selfishness corrodes.
Unselfishness ennobles, satisfies. Don't put off the joy
derivable from doing helpful, kindly things for
others.
B. C. Forbes

101. 14 Unconditional Love - A Story To Ponder On 96
There is an increase in divorce cases; jealousies, revenge,
aggression and violence, murder and other sufferings arise
out of attached and self-centered love. Much of what we
know as ‘love’ is actually conditional love or love with
strongsince I was awhich of six, I used to pondera on the
Ever attachment child of course can lead to lot of
tremendous disparities that exist in human conditions. It
suffering when things do not go according to one party’s
expectations or desires. When I startedor spouseand practise
was later on in my life, when a lover to learn declares his
eternal love for his partner, actually was shed in his these
the Dhamma that some light embedded on heart
and mind is issues. Some years ago, I did a Power Point
philosophical the attachment and thought: ‘I love you
provided you based on the thoughts or you do this for me…’
presentation do not do this to me that puzzled me when I
In a young. The objective was to help makeas opposed on
was Dhamma talk on the subject of Metta us reflect to
conditional love, Way things are, The Four Noble Truths,
the Dhamma – the Ajahn Brahmavamso, shared a very
interesting Universal Orders, The Law of Cause and Effect,
The Five hypothetical situation on what Metta really is:
‘Supposeand Rebirth,aThe Six Realms etc. blessings of your
Kamma you go for long retreat with the
spouse. At the end of the retreat you return home to find
your spouse missing. You find a note from your spouse that
reads: Dear Darling, remember you declared your undying
love for me and would want me to be always happy under
all circumstances. Well, I have eloped with your best friend;
we are now truly very happy together. Goodbye. Take care.
Now what will be your feelings? Would you be happy that
your spouse has found happiness? You would probably be
overwhelmed by negative emotions and thoughts of anger,
hatred, revenge, disappointment, sorrow, lamentation etc’
So you see, we are far from spiritual cultivation. Our
attachments are strong and can lead us to much suffering.
We need to strive on diligently in our Dhamma practice of
Sila (Morality), Samadhi (Mind stability) and Panna
(Wisdom ). Only then can we gradually reduce and cut our
attachments, clinging and grasping. True peace, happiness,
contentment and freedom will then come upon us.

102. A Story To Ponder On
There was a soldier who was finally coming home after
having fought in the Vietnam War. He called his
parents from San Francisco.
Mom and Dad, I'm
coming home, but
I've a favor to ask.
I have a friend I'd
like to bring home
with me.

103. "Sure," they
replied,
"we'd love to
meet him."
"There's something
you should know,”
the son continued,
"he was hurt
pretty badly
in the fighting.”
“He stepped on a
land mine and
lost an arm and a
leg. He has
nowhere else to
go, and I want
him to come live
with us."

104. “We are sorry to
hear that, son.
Maybe we can help
him find
somewhere to
live,” both the
parents said.
" o, Mom "Son, you
and Dad, I don't know
want him to what you're
live with us." asking.”
“Someone with such a
handicap would be a
terrible burden on us.
We have our own lives
to live, and we can't let
something like this
interfere with our lives,”
the father continued.

105. “I think you should
just come home and
forget about this guy.
He'll find a way to
live on his own,“ ”
the mother said.
At that point, the son
hung up the phone.
The parents heard
nothing more
from him.
A few days later,
however, the
parents received
a call from the
San Francisco
police.

106. The police told the parents that their son
had died after falling from a high rise
building. The police believed it was suicide.
13
The grief-stricken parents
flew to San Francisco and
were taken to the city
morgue to identify the
body of their son.
They recognized him, but
to their horror they also
discovered something
they didn't know - their
son had only one arm
and one leg.

107. How much of our love is
conditional? We find it
easy to love those who are
good-looking or fun to have
around, but we don't like
people who inconvenience
us or who do not do
what we want.
Unconditional Love is
pure love with no
strings attached …
it is patient, kind and
always positive.
METTA is the true and
pure unconditional love.
METTA = Loving-Kindness
+ Goodwill + Friendliness +
Love + Benevolence
18

108. To develop Unconditional
Love, practise
Metta Bhavana,
the Meditation on
Loving-Kindness
The
End
May our Hearts
be filled With Metta,
with boundless Bro. Oh Teik Bin
Loving-Kindness
* To give and not expect return, that is what lies at
the heart of love. Oscar Wilde
* The greatest gift that you can give to others is the
gift of unconditional love and acceptance.
Brian Tracy
* The ultimate lesson all of us have to learn is
unconditional love, which includes not only others
but ourselves as well. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross
* Love expects no reward. Love knows no fear. Love
Divine gives - does not demand. Love thinks no evil;
imputes no motive. To Love is to share and serve.
Swami Sivananda

109. 104
15 Who Are The Real Outcasts?
I used to ask the Form 5 and 6 students in my community
guidance classes whether they knew of some great people in
the past and present who contributed a lot for the welfare of
others, names like Florence Nightingale, Albert Schweitzer,
Martin Luther was a Mother Teresa, The Dalai lama, Nelson
Ever since I King, child of six, I used to ponder on the
Mandela anddisparities others. Sadly,humanof the students
tremendous a host of that exist in most conditions. It
did not knowin my life, when I started to their sacrifices for
was later on about such people let alone learn and practise
the sake of society and humanity. It is a shed and shame
the Dhamma that some light was pity on these
indeed that today, among many youngI ones,a the idols and
philosophical issues. Some years ago, did Power Point
role models are ‘famous’ singers, movie puzzled me when I
presentation based on the thoughts that stars and sportsmen
whose personal lives are wasblemished…people who on
was young. The objective so to help make us reflect do
drugs, lead highlyWay things are,sex lives, Noble Truths,
the Dhamma – the promiscuous The Four show violent
temper, aggression and violence and thoseCauseflout Effect,
The Five Universal Orders, The Law of who and moral
principles and the laws ofSixcountry. etc. great heroes are
Kamma and Rebirth, The a Realms Real
forgotten whereas personalities who blatantly display
immoral or unwholesome actions are admired and placed on
the pedestal of gods. I once had a Form 5 student who used to
lapse in his nominal donation to our Association for the lessons in
our community classes. He did not belong to the category of poor
and deprived students…such students did not have to make any
contributions. On the contrary, they could apply for welfare aid
from our Association. I found out that this student ‘worshipped’
a few notorious pop singers; he would spend lots of money on
this ‘hobby’ of his. To attend some of the singing concerts, he
was willing to dish out hundreds of dollars for the tickets but
when it came to any charitable donations, he was most unwilling
to part with even a small sum of money. This is very sad indeed.
There are various factors contributing to a loss of values among
the young. Are parents, teachers and other adult members setting
themselves as good role models for the young? Are the young
ones receiving proper moral and religious education at home, in
school, temples and other places of worship? Parents play a vital
role to ensure their children receive good spiritual education.

110. 1
From The
VASALA SUTTA
The Buddha’s
Discourse on
OUTCASTS
Whosoever is angry, harbors
hatred, and is reluctant to
speak well of others
(discredits the good of
others), perverted in views,
deceitful — know him as an
outcast