Zeal, Vigor, Mindfulness, Discernment, Single-Mindedness
These Five Implements were presented by Chih-i in his “Essentials for Practicing Calming and Insight and Dhyana Meditation”
Zeal – First a person much possess the desire, the willingness to change something. Without this aspiring to change there is no initial cause for implementation.
Vigor – Next a person must approach the task with effort, and a willingness to accomplish the task without letting up. Not being afraid to challenge the root causes which may be the most difficult. Unrelenting adherence to the Six perfections, the Eightfold Path even when it seems most difficult or most discouraging.
Geese at night with their young in Obihiro Hokaido Japan
Mindfulness – Generation of a mind that is able to see what is based upon reality and what is based upon our interpretation. A mind that is aware that there are noble acts and acts that are to be avoided. Develop a mind that is free from the out-flows of impurity. Being awake in the moment and aware.
Discernment – Discrimination of action based upon mindfulness. To make critical judgments between what is wise. Assessments of value and achievements against what will be lost or unattainable by acting a certain way. It isn’t always a case of clear cut choices, sometimes there is only choices between two unpleasant courses, which will yield the greatest potential for future better choices.
Single-Mindedness – Achieving a focus that prohibits us from being distracted and side-tracked. Making a single-minded effort to cultivate one’s mind so that no thing can interfere with our efforts.
