Spontaneity and Joy

• 501Confidence in the Buddha and Many Possibilities

  Analyze the Buddhist concept of saddha by tracing the three traditional steps of developing confidence (admiration, aspiration, realization), then evaluate how humble confidence differs from self-centered pride, and implement creative practices that demonstrate patient optimism while maintaining awareness of innate goodness despite setbacks.
• 511Lila and Mudita

  Define and analyze the concepts of lila (divine play) and mudita (sympathetic joy) in Buddhist philosophy; evaluate how cultivating spontaneity and celebrating others’ success supports spiritual development; and synthesize understanding by implementing creative practices that embody playful wisdom while maintaining awareness and compassion in artistic expression.
• 515Anicca and Lila

  Create spontaneous, playful artistic expressions with awareness of impermanence, and analyze how non-agenda-driven creativity enhances present-moment awareness.
• 599Opanayiko

  Analyze the difference between accepting teachings through belief, versus discovering truth through direct experience, then evaluate how applying a Buddhist concept in daily life—such as impermanence or compassion—can lead to personal insights. Compare direct experience with theoretical understanding of dharma teachings, and assess whether this experiential approach demonstrates the quality of opanayiko by genuinely leading toward inner clarity and transformation.
• 504Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind

  Analyze the relationship between “beginner’s mind” and insight as taught in Zen Buddhism; evaluate how cultivating awe and wonder supports openness to learning; and find natural delight in everyday things. Maintain childlike wonder and curiosity.