Through work we can learn to use our energy wisely so that all of our actions are fruitful and rich.
Skillful Means
Skillful Means
Volunteering for Yeshe De is more than just an opportunity to participate in a worthwhile project, it is also a chance to learn how to get the most out of any work that you do. In 1978, Tarthang Tulku wrote the book Skillful Means, a collection of teachings and practices to guide students and volunteers toward a work experience that was meaningful and satisfying. Today, the volunteers of the Yeshe De Project continue to use Skillful Means in a variety of ways.
What is Skillful Means?
Skillful Means is an integrated approach to life and work. Rather than viewing work as something we do simply to earn money or as an obligation, we can change our perspective by understanding that our work is not separate from the other aspects of our life. In fact, work becomes a bridge to self-awareness and development, allowing us to transcend our limitations and transform our lives.
Skillful Means is a practical guide for turning our work into “work practice,” or, in other words, using work as an opportunity to train our minds and gain deeper insights. In the work practice model, the work environment becomes a laboratory where the individual experiments with her own experience. In this laboratory, we can observe our body, speech, and mind, feel our breath, and watch how our habits, patterns, and actions affect our work, ourselves, and others. As we develop awareness we can recognize every person, situation, and moment as our teachers, appreciating even the difficulties that we encounter. By utilizing the Skillful Means approach, we can find immediate ways to apply the Buddhist teachings directly to our daily lives.
Skillful Means Class and Practice
Members of the Yeshe De crew attend a Skillful Means class where formal practices are assigned for the week. Each morning we read from the Skillful Means book to set an intention for the day and to recap the weekly practice. You may decide to apply these concepts and suggestions, or not. A bell is rung intermittently throughout the day as a reminder of the topics discussed during Skillful Means class. What volunteers do with their time is a personal choice. You have the opportunity to make the work your practice, but only you can make it happen.
A copy of Skillful Means is provided to each volunteer as part of their housing. To purchase your own copy, visit the Dharma Publishing bookstore or the online store.
To hear from volunteers regarding their experience working at Yeshe De, check out their video shorts.
