This ceremony is a part of monastic discipline, and a custom, established by the Buddha which supports skilful parting of the ways. When we spend time in each other’s company, even with the best of intentions, we can say or do things that cause difficulty or pain for others. The Buddha recognized this and established this simple exchange whereby, when such a parting is about to occur, the juniors begin by requesting the forgiveness of the elder for anything they might have done which has brought on hurt of any kind. The elder then responds by asking, in return, for forgiveness for any action that similarly might have caused pain.
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Seems appropriate for all that has been going on in with my parents, my family, my friends and many of these are my elders.
You mean I have to continually request and offer my forgiveness over and over again even if I don’t think I’m at fault? It’s not about fault or blame or shame, its about extending loving kindness.
As I’ve embarked on some kind of spiritual journey of the heart there have been some of the same people in my life who have no problem letting me know when I make mistakes and point out how I sometimes make references to non-judgment, compassion, love and all these things that may lead people on to think I am some kind of enlightened being. Just so we clear this up… Far from that you are Maurice. Yup, I know. I am still human. I make mistakes. I appreciate being shown my ways by other people, where I went astray and where I can improve. Thank you.
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