If we're going to tread The Path, a map is necessary. The three principle aspects are both landmarks on that map, as well as practical instructions.
The Dharma encourages us to fully consider the relevance and efficacy of teachings given to us by our mentors. Unlike religious culture, it is not considered blasphemous for a teaching to be "contemporized"; it is considered the responsible and appropriate action.
Traditionally, the path is composed of three "principle aspects": renunciation, bodhicitta, and correct view (of emptiness). In modern terminology, these concepts are more clearly expressed by the words participation, stewardship, and global responsibility.
Renunciation / Participation
Renunciation simply means to live a life that is fully dedicated to and undistracted from progressing along the path. The historical Buddha demonstrated renunciation in linear terms, as a mendicant, and inspired others to do so. However, as the world becomes more complex, non-linear terms are required.
Participation invites us to consider that wherever we are, whatever we are doing, and whomever we are with, we are free to view each person and experience as a precious opportunity to deepen our practice.
Participation also means that we are free to view anyone or anything as inherently full of magical potential, a part of ourselves, and someone or something sacred to steward — and to renounce our old habits of viewing things otherwise.
Bodhicitta / Stewardship
Stewardship is the profound commitment to assist others in maximizing their evolutionary potential — and subsequently, the realization that in order to do so, we must maximize our own.
Correct View / Global Responsibility
Global responsibility naturally emerges from the recognition that any environment or object is included within and composed of other objects and environments. The existence of anything is therefore dependent upon other objects and environments. The health of one influences the health of the others.​
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