Overcoming the need to control things
Episode description
Today we’re exploring what the power of a daily practice of chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo can really do for you, specifically if you struggle with feelings of helplessness, anxiety or a need to control things.
Will Moody, of New Orleans, shares his story of what Buddhism calls “human revolution,” or inner transformation, the process of tapping into your Buddhability on a daily basis to change your life and environment. After struggling with anxiety and a tendency to micromanage everyone in his environment, including himself, Will learned to replace his fear with belief in himself. Step by step, he saw his environment change profoundly.
CHEAT SHEET
1:31 Introduction to Will
1:56 How he was introduced to chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo and why he started
3:56 The early experiences that contributed to his anxiety
9:28 What changed when he started chanting
13:32 How he feels now
16:25 What his anxiety and need for control used to look like
22:57 How Buddhist study helped him transform his tendency
32:52 What change looked like for him
38:56 On setting intentions for relationships
45:02 What an average day looks like when you chant
50:46 Advice for anyone who is struggling with anxiety or feeling out of control
References Will mentioned:
- “Strategy of the Lotus Sutra,” The Writings of Nichiren Daishonin, vol. 1, p. 1000
- Learning From the Writings: The Hope-Filled Teachings of Nichiren Daishonin, p. 141
- A Foundation for Your Life, p. 65
To hear about this month's chanting journey, sign up for our newsletter here.