This next activity is a personal reflection on the four noble truths and the eightfold path.  This is to help students gain some understanding of what the Buddha meant when he said that life is
suffering, and that there was a way to help yourself do away with the suffering by following the
eightfold path.  I have found that my students have some trouble at first with this one, but when they are able to put their thoughts together with the Buddha’s teaching, they are able to understand it more clearly.  I believe this also enables students to not think of the teaching as something negative.  It is not uncommon for people to see Buddhism as pessimistic. 

The directions I give the students are the following:  they are to think of a problem they are now
having or recently had.  This could be any problem.  It is interesting that it even works for the
student who has a cold or broken limb!  Remind them about the kinds of problems they may
discuss freely and those that you must report.  When they have come up with their problem, tell
them to look at the problem in light of the first noble truth and then the second.  Have them write
out how they are suffering and what is the cause (remember, it is our desires, according to the
Buddha, that cause us suffering).  Next they should write out that there is a way to end the
suffering (third noble truth) and then finally have them reflect upon the eightfold path in light of
how they may help them be free from their suffering.  I walk around as they are writing to answer
questions of those who are having difficulty with the exercise. 

I teach in a school where students regularly share on a personal level.  If this is true for you, you
may ask if any wish to share what they wrote.  I usually collect them, read them carefully, support
them in their understanding of the four noble truths and eightfold path.  I also make comments
about what they have shared about their problem to give them encouragement.   You may be
surprised to see how they see a way out of their problem as a result of this reflection.  Be sure to get this assignment back to them as soon as possible. 
 

Name:___________________________________________________________ 

                                            The Four Noble Truths and The Eightfold Path 
                                                                  A personal Reflection 

Directions: think of a problem you are now having or recently had.  This could be any problem. 
Reminder: as usual you may share whatever you care to share, but if you share anything about any
kind of abuse you have experienced I must report this.  You are now going to look at the problem in light of the first noble truth and then the second.  Reflect on this for a moment and then write out
how you are suffering and what is the cause of your suffering (remember, it is our desires,
according to the Buddha, that cause us suffering).  Then write out that you understand there is a
way to end the suffering (third noble truth).  Now read over the eightfold path carefully.  Reflect upon
the eightfold path in light of how they may help you be free from your suffering.  Finally write about
which of the eightfold path you might work on in your life to help end your suffering.  If you have any
questions I will be circulating the room to assist you.