This article explains how the Twelve Nidanas of dependent origination help us understand why people may disregard other peoples feelings and how we can break that cycle. We first examine each of the Twelve Nidanas and how they contribute to self-centered behavior that disregards the feelings of others. We then offer practical suggestions for breaking the cycle at each of these points, such as developing mindfulness, cultivating awareness of consequences, and practicing empathy and compassion toward others.

The cycle of self-centered behavior begins with ignorance of the interconnected nature of all living beings and the impact of our actions on others, which leads to habitual patterns of behavior that disregard the feelings of others. Our consciousness is conditioned by these patterns, making us more prone to disregarding others. Our body and mind then manifests in a way that prioritizes our own desires and motives, and we use our senses to seek out experiences that serve those desires while ignoring the feelings or needs of others.

When we encounter situations or people who trigger our self-centered desires or motives, we experience a range of feelings that center around our own desires without regard for how they affect others. We then develop a craving for the things we desire, ignoring how they may affect others, and cling to them, disregarding the feelings of others in the process. This clinging reinforces our habitual patterns, perpetuating the cycle of disregarding others feelings and leading to negative outcomes in relationships and other situations.

However, we can break the cycle at each of these points by cultivating mindfulness, awareness of consequences, and empathy and compassion toward others. By educating ourselves about the interconnected nature of all beings and developing positive intentions and virtuous actions, we can break the cycle of mental formations that prioritize our own desires over the well-being of others.

We can also develop awareness of how sensory experiences lead to desires and cravings and cultivate a greater awareness of consequences when we encounter situations or people that trigger our self-centered desires. By practicing mindfulness of feelings, we can develop a non-reactive attitude and avoid being consumed by them.

In conclusion, the Twelve Nidanas of dependent origination can help us understand the cycle of self-centered behavior that disregards other peoples feelings and suggest practical ways to break the cycle at each of its points. By cultivating empathy, compassion, and mindfulness, we can recognize the interconnected nature of all living beings and reduce suffering while promoting peace and harmony in relationships and other situations.