Episode 202 - Beyond Good and Bad

Episode 202 - Beyond Good and Bad

Author: JoAnn Fox: Buddhist Teacher February 3, 2025 Duration: 37:24

What if you could instantly reduce stress, anxiety, and worry—not by changing your circumstances, but by changing how you see them? So much of our discomfort comes from labeling things as "good" or "bad," clinging to what we want and resisting what we don't. But what if these labels aren't inherently true?

In this episode of Buddhism for Everyone, we'll explore the Buddhist teaching that nothing is truly good or bad on its own—it only appears that way based on our perspective. By understanding this, we gain the ability to meet life's challenges with wisdom, flexibility, and peace.

So, if you've ever wished you could let go of stress, worry, or frustration over "bad" things happening, this episode is for you. Let's journey beyond good and bad—to a place of inner freedom.

Him I call a brahmana, who, in this world, has transcended both ties good and evil; who is sorrowless and, being free from the taints of moral defilements, is pure.

--Buddha, The Dhammapada, Verse 412

References and Links

Buddha (1986).The Dhammapada: Verses and Stories. Translated by Daw Mya Tin, M.A. (Website). Edited by Editorial Committee, Burma Tipitaka Association Rangoon. Courtesy .of Nibbana.com. For free distribution only, as a gift of dhamma. Retrieved from https://www.tipitaka.net/tipitaka/dhp/verseload.php?verse=412

Je Tsongkhapa (2014). Great Treatise on the Stages of the Path to Enlightenment, by Je Tsongkhapa, Volume 3 (Kindle). Translated by the Lamrim Chenmo Translation Committee. Joshua Cutler, Editor-in-Chief, and Guy Newlan, Editor.

Find us at the links below: 

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/Buddhismforeveryone

Facebook Group:Join our private group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/sanghatalk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buddhism.with.joann.fox

X: @Joannfox77

To learn more about virtual classes with JoAnn Fox: Buddhist Study Program


You'll find Buddhism for Everyone with JoAnn Fox to be a conversation that feels both timeless and immediately useful. JoAnn Fox, a Buddhist teacher with over two decades of experience, guides these discussions with a genuine warmth and a welcome touch of humor, making profound ideas feel accessible. This isn't about abstract philosophy; it's about the tangible ways these ancient practices can reshape our modern days. Each episode, released every other week, delves into practical applications. You might explore how to cultivate patience during a frustrating commute, find a deeper sense of contentment amidst daily routines, or develop the compassionate resilience the world needs. The podcast serves as a gentle, consistent reminder that spiritual growth isn't separate from ordinary life-it's woven right into it. JoAnn's approach demystifies meditation and mindfulness, framing them as tools for anyone seeking more peace or clarity. Whether you're completely new to these concepts or looking to deepen an existing practice, the conversations meet you where you are, offering insights that encourage reflection and, most importantly, action in your own life.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 230

Buddhism for Everyone with JoAnn Fox
Podcast Episodes
Episode 196 - Making mindful choices [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:06
This episode explores how to make mindful choices that lead to happiness and well-being in the future. We can learn how to distinguish between virtuous actions and nonvirtuous actions Virtuous actions are those that lead…
Episode 195 - Feel before you act [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:40
In this episode we explore one of the core teachings of the Buddha—the Five Aggregates and their connection to our problems and suffering. The Buddha taught that life is pervaded by dukkha, which means dissatisfaction or…
Episode 194 - Enjoying without attachment [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:17
Joy and pleasures are woven into the fabric of our lives. The teachings of Buddha invite us to dance with moments of delight without the chains of attachment. In this episode, we explore how to savor the pleasures of lif…
Episode 193: Compassion as antidote to anger [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:17
For the average person, Moments of anger are inevitable. They can flare up in response to various triggers, from personal frustrations to global injustices. However, according to the Buddha's teachings, there is a powerf…
Episode 192 - Solving Anger with Dharma [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:40
In this episode, we delve into a universal human experience: anger. But fear not! We're not just exploring the problem; we're diving into solutions. Get ready for an enlightening journey as we uncover practical strategie…
Important Announcement [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:32
Virtual Classes with JoAnn Fox start this Saturday, March 2nd! You can enroll any time! What: An ongoing study program to practice the entire path of Buddhism. Join us at any point! When: Saturdays 10 am EST Why: People…
Episode 191 - Got problems? Buddha has solutions. [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:30
Renunciation is the determination to be free from our own cycle of suffering and dissatisfaction. Renunciation is a state of mind, like patience, compassion, or contentment. Much like these virtuous states of mind, devel…
Episode 190 - Renunciation: This is the way [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:52
In today's episode, we explore the profound concept of renunciation in Buddhism. True renunciation isn't about abandoning pleasure but transforming our relationship with it. Join us as we unravel the complexities of renu…
Episode 189 - Transforming the Three Poisons [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:03
In this episode, we explore the antidotes to the three poisons — greed, anger, and ignorance. The three poisons are the fundamental sources of suffering. Join us to discover how generosity counters greed, loving-kindness…
Episode 188 - Practicing Impermanence [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:45
Buddha's teachings on impermanence empower practitioners to develop a mindset far less prone to suffering, anxiety, and worry. By embracing the ever-changing nature of existence, we create a wise and resilient approach t…