Good Morning Kalyanamittas,
Please note, this post is not about any specific people or posts, ie this is not criticism, but a way to look at how we can each reduce our suffering and increase happiness and equanimity while participating.
Things that definitely cause suffering;
If one has a belief, or a requirement, that external conditions (including views) will be a particular way, then one will always suffer when they are not. All formations are impermanent and unsatisfactory.
Being impermanent one has no control over them. Views are in constant flux both within ourselves and in every other being. All formations are not self.
On the forum, suffering is guaranteed if one attaches importance to views, or requires them to be in a specific way. Given that we are all human, and on the path, as opposed to fully realised Arahants, we try to mitigate the suffering by operating from a set of guidelines. These try to embody right speech as far as possible in this environment, but this is a very tricky line to pursue.
We, as moderators, do not so much judge views, as the way that they are expressed. The exceptions to this are specific conspiracy theories and hate speech, as outlined in the forum guidelines. Link at the bottom.
But the important question is
What are the causes and conditions for happiness, especially when participating in an online forum like this one? I invite everyone to list the methods they have developed to minimise the suffering and to increase happiness, peace and equanimity while participating here.
My own list to start us off
Never come online when grumpy or dissatisfied.
Avoid the critisising mind
Always take the kindest option
Notice the reactions one has, and use these for active practice and mind training
Remember there is an âoffâ button on the computer
I look forward to hearing about the many methods, strategies and tricks you have all developed.
May all beings be free of suffering - on this forum