Mindful and Self-possesed
65. ‘And how, O king, is the Bhikshu mindful and self-possessed?’
‘In this matter, O king. the Bhikshu in going forth or in coming back keeps clearly before his mind’s eye (all that is wrapt up therein–the immediate object of the act itself, its ethical significance, whether or not it is conducive to the high aim set before him, and the real facts underlying the mere phenomenon of the outward act). And so also in looking forward, or in looking round; in stretching forth his arm, or in drawing it in again; in eating or drinking, in masticating or swallowing, in obeying the calls of nature, in going or standing or sitting, in sleeping or waking, in speaking or in being still, he keeps himself aware of all it really means. Thus is it, O king, that the Bhikshu becomes mindful and self-possessed.
Translated from the Pâli by T. W. Rhys Davids – London, H. Frowde, Oxford University Press [1899] http://www.sacred-texts.com/bud/dob/dob-02tx.htm#p.%2078
To your happiness! Mark