Ancient Wisdom for Difficult Times: The Second Step of the Eightfold Path
February 16, 2026 | 2 CommentsAudio only version is here
Meditation practice begins at 11:58
Hello Wonderful Open Heart Project,
In this talk, we continue exploring the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path, focusing on the second step: Right Intention.
Right Intention grows out of Right View, which is the willingness to see clearly. When we practice seeing things clearly, the question becomes very practical: How do we live? How do we move through our lives without so much grasping?
Right Intention is not about being morally perfect or self-sacrificing. It is not about putting yourself last or pretending you do not matter. Instead, it is about widening the frame. Rather than acting from a narrow, potentially defensive place, we begin to ask, What would benefit me and also benefit others? When we include others in our intentions, something softens. Life feels less tight, less threatened, and paradoxically more empowered.
It is a very ordinary shift, but it changes everything.
There is a full podcast episode, The Noble Eightfold Path: Step Two: The Power of Intention (Ep. 43), that goes deeper into the meaning and practice of Right Intention if you would like to continue the exploration.
Warmly,
Susan
categorized in: dharma, open heart project
2 Comments
Thank you Susan, so lovely to see the cat again.
Each time I hear these teachings I get them on a different level.
Especially helped by the 21 day meditation practice.
When I manage 20 mins there is an even deeper shift.
Chinese New Year Blessings to you.
Jane from Londinium.
thank you and so lovely to see a new member of the family !