The bird is a timeless metaphor for spiritual liberation. Unlike humans and most animals, birds are not earthbound. Though they may land on the earth, their true home is the sky. In the same way, spiritual liberation reveals that our true home is not of the earth, but of a higher dimension—one that cannot be seen through earthly eyes.
The wings of the bird are often likened to the two essential aspects of Dharma practice. Just as the movement of the wings gives rise to the bird’s ability to fly, the practice of Dharma gives rise to the human capacity for freedom. One wing is labeled awareness, the other equanimity. Let us now explore each of these wings.
“Awareness” in Dharma practice refers to a specific kind of attention known as bare attention. This means paying close and precise attention to each experience—whether in the body, the mind, or the senses. We observe sensations, thoughts, emotions, desires, and sensory input (seeing, hearing, etc.) without adding interpretation, judgment, or conceptual overlay. We aim to experience things as they are—not as we mentally interpret them.
A second element of this wing is continuity. Bare attention is not limited to formal meditation, such as sitting on the cushion or attending a retreat. It is meant to be practiced all day long, moment by moment, in every life circumstance. The wings of Dharma must be engaged as continuously as possible.
Equanimity is often described as acceptance, allowance, or nonresistance. Every experience—large or small, pleasant or unpleasant—is to be accepted equally. If an experience is pleasant, we allow it without grasping or trying to recreate it. If it is unpleasant, we allow it just the same, without pushing it away or resisting.
Resistance can take many subtle forms: sleepiness, denial, body tension, daydreaming, compulsive behavior, and more. These may arise in our practice, but the intention remains—to meet each moment with openness.
This description of Dharma practice outlines an ideal—an intention. We know we will not live up to it perfectly. When we fall short, it is vital to simply return to the intention. We do not judge or evaluate ourselves. Patience and self-kindness are essential companions on this path.
The fruit of awareness is wisdom.
The fruit of equanimity is compassion.
When these two wings work together—like the white wings of a bird—we move in the direction of liberation.
If we lean too heavily on awareness without equanimity, we may gain wisdom, but it may be dry or overly intellectual, lacking heart. If we emphasize equanimity without awareness, we may feel relaxed or pleasant, but little insight is gained. We might drift into a dreamlike state that feels good but lacks clarity and depth.
Dharma practice is more of an art than a science. While we may follow a formula, its application varies with each individual. A teacher can be invaluable—someone who observes and advises based on what they see and hear.
External factors may affect our meditation: physical pain, illness, emotional agitation, environmental noise, or sleepiness. Just as a bird may glide effortlessly on an updraft and then suddenly face a headwind, we too may encounter resistance and need to exert more effort to maintain progress.
Over time, unconscious conflicts, stresses, and unresolved issues may surface. Just before they emerge, we may experience unconscious resistance. It may feel difficult to maintain mindfulness even when no clear cause is present. In such moments, it is crucial not to judge or evaluate—simply continue the practice, carried by the wings of awareness and equanimity.
