How can we deepen an inner sense of freedom?
In Buddhism, ethics are very important. We have something called the Five Precepts—ethical guidelines for how we can live our life to be a good, safe person in the world, and to develop more inner freedom.
I want to go into more detail about the second precept, which is not to steal. Immediately, you might think: “I don’t steal, so that doesn’t apply to me.” But now think about the broader phrasing of the second precept: “Not to take that which is not given.” That opens up a bit more of a gray area.
For example: Say you go on retreat, and there’s shampoo in the shower. Whose shampoo is it? Do you just use it? Or do you ask for permission? This is a practice path. It’s not about right or wrong, or about being bad if you do it. It’s about becoming more sensitive—to our actions and how they impact others.
So ask yourself: Where do I just take, without asking consent? Another example: Have you ever taken office supplies from work for personal use? Many of us have at some point or another. And does it matter in the grand scheme? Maybe not. But the practice is about becoming more sensitive, and experiencing the aspects of these precepts that actually become sources of inner freedom and happiness. Such as the the knowing that we’re not hurting others by taking from them. In Buddhist practice, this is called the bliss of blamelessness. It’s a kind of happiness that comes from living in alignment with our values, which feels really good. You can sleep well at night, because you’re not carrying the remorse of having hurt someone else.
We’re practicing a form of restraint—not as punishment, but as something we want to get better at. Because what happens over time is that this practice starts to change who we are. We don’t just act ethically—we become ethical.
Edited excerpt from Christiane’s talk, The Bliss of Blamelessness
Listen to her full talk on our Youtube channel, InsightLA Meditation.