This is a simple but highly motivating reflection that I just had, and I wished to share it.
I've been going through the contents of the gradual teachings (dana, sila, sagga, adineva, nekkhamma, cattari ariya saccani) in the last few days, trying to wrap my head around it, and it occurred to me, while contemplating the big picture:
"Wow, this is all about gifts."
The teaching starts with wisdom (paññā) that is made of a right view, that there is happiness to be found in generosity (dana), with the intention not just of giving, but of refining, of polishing our gift, of finding the perfect gift.
The Noble Path (Ariya-magga) is in fact a framework for the perfection of giving!
A path to become an admirable friend, who is able to give the most perfect gift.
The gift of right speech, the gift of right action, the gift of right livelihood, the gift of right effort, the gift of right mindfulness, the gift of right concentration, the gift of right view, the gift of right intention.
Dana and Magga
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