Ajahn explores the Buddha's famous prescription: 'By not pushing forward and by not standing still, I managed to cross the floods'.

The Parami are ten qualities of the heart of the bodhisattva - those who wish to cultivate peace in the world, for all beings. Tonight, we started with setting the foundation of our discussion on the parami, by first talking about the floods that can sweep us along - a tide of worries, duties and pressures - which the parami can help us navigate.

The Buddha answers a deva who wants to know how to cross the flood of sensuality, the flood of existence, and all its dangers. Walk the Middle Way, he taught, not stopping and not over-struggling with obstacles. Use the seven enlightenment practices to train our minds so that we can make this dangerous and urgent crossing. No matter how long it takes, never give up.