What's new?

Computer down for a couple of days.
Am reading through Thich Naht Hanh's version of the five precepts, some of which have been posted here.
On Thursday last at the sangha we did a guided meditation on them, then there is a discussion this coming Thursday.

Listening and Talking in the Present Moment

The Fourth mindfulness training of Thich Nhat Hanh Aware of the suffering caused by unmindful speech and the inability to listen to others, I vow to cultivate loving speech and deep listening in order to bring joy and happiness to others and relieve others of their suffering. Knowing that words can create happiness or suffering, I vow to learn to speak truthfully, with words that inspire self-confidence, joy and hope. I am determined not to spread news that I do not know to be certain and not to criticize or condemn things of which I am not sure. I will refrain from uttering words that can cause division or discord, or that can cause the family or community to break. I will make all efforts to reconcile and resolve all conflicts, however small.
Thich Nhat Hanh has a commentary on the 4th Precept.