Three key factors of the Noble Eightfold Path circle around and support each other: Right View, which scans to see which skilful qualities need to be developed; Right Mindfulness, which sustains attention on this development; and Right Effort, which provides the energy to complete the transformation.

Liberation is always a step-by-step process. Each stage flows into the next. It’s a natural process, according to Dhamma. Start on the right track, with virtue – relational sensitivity. Acting in this way gives rise to gladness, then concentration, leading to liberation. (Sutta reference AN 10:2)

The flow to liberation isn’t a flash in the pan miracle, but a gradual, step-by-step process. Begin with the 4 establishments of mindfulness. When held carefully, steadily, with patience, the enlightenment factors develop. It can’t be done out of will power. Rather, nourishment for the process are restraint, mindfulness and careful attention. (Sutta reference AN 10:61)

Our general mode follows a track called becoming. It’s a track that keeps moving, flavoured with craving that never arrives at satisfaction. The Buddha presented a more natural way – step-by-step, chart the course, with friendliness and purity of intention. Mindfulness of body and contemplative thought (vitaka-vicara) support a wider, wholistic mode. Use the process to adjust your world, so you’re not driven and pushed by it.

The emphasis on virtue, beyond keeping rules, customs and procedures, is to bring about harmony. It enables us to establish a fluent relationship that isn’t domineering nor indifferent, clearing of heart from destructive tendencies. It’s the tonality of careful attention in what we do. Not seeking results, but just bringing forth harmony, beauty, purity in our daily lives. (Sutta reference SN 46:1)

The compulsive shaping and drives of the citta are held by grasping – an involuntary reflex that can be mastered through careful cultivation. As the end of this grasping and shaping is the sense of self, that sense of ‘me’ ‘I am this’ is the ongoing focus of our Dhamma practice.