A question from a discussion with a friend of mine:

[LynzM]

Friend: i am really NOT one of those women who is in a constant state of zen
although i really would like to be

Lynz3131: I'm SO not, either. I don't know how people do it!

Friend: my theory is that they must actually be rather dull ;)
i mean, how could somebody who is perceptive and intelligent and has the ability to think critically NOT get angry from time to time? Wouldn't you just have to be simpleminded to be that placid?
Alas, I think there are probably some really smart people who are also very peaceful inside. sigh. Where's the path to enlightenment?

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So, I'm looking for DU'ers thoughts to this... are there some people who are just naturally very calm and peaceful? Can you maintain this peace, this zen, while parenting? I strive for it, but I lose my cool not infrequently, much as I try.

[ZombieNixon]

1. I'm not a parent, but

I'm a firm believer in the dark side. I can't not get angry sometimes, and I occasionally find it liberating. :evilgrin:

[buddhamama]

2. bwahahaha!

i am doomed. :)

zen for me doesn't mean not getting upset or angry, not having opinions, or being unoffended.
it is the acceptence of those aspects of our nature as a part of who we are, all of us, and not allowing those *things* to disturb the inner peace.

disturbing the inner peace for me means separating myself from everyone and everything.
we are one. we're human. we are imperfect and perfect in our imperfections. we are being.

[LynzM]

3. That's a good way to look at it, buddhamama....

I guess a lot of it is in the perspective, and in what we do with that negative energy. :hi: