In these arduous and trying times it is difficult to think beyond the purview of our immediate issues. But as Buddhists and as progressive people we are called to be at the forefront of troubling times. The Buddha did not shirk difficult situations but rather tried to use them as teaching tools to instruct people. How can we in light of recent events use these times to teach the Dharma. That will be the very purpose of this blog. I invite all of you to express your ideas but more than that, I invite you to wage Dharma in your homes, towns, offices and in your communities.
Things as simple as a kind word or gesture or donating a book to your local library. Aim for soft impacts not blatant in your face tactics. Buddhism is not about externals it's about internal changes. Aim to make positive subtle changes rather than short term superficial impacts. Let's explore simply ways to wage Dharma.
Simply by being happy and having a good disposition is an excellent way to wage Dharma. People obviously react more favorably to positive people rather than the sour grape variety of Buddhist, and I've met a few. Unfortunately the Buddhists who focus on suffering and release from it are only going to attract other miserable people. Our goals are simple and long term. I have often stated that our goal is to create a conspiracy of light in a darkening world. We can achieve this goal by simply putting our beliefs into action. Vote for initiatives that mirror your Buddhist beliefs and vote for politicians who believe in compassionate action and policies. Also write your politicians and legislators and persuade them to act and legislate in a compassionate way that benefits all.
In our personal lives we can make better choices in how we spend our money and who we privilege with our patronage. A thing as simple as buying groceries can impact our society for better or worse. Teachers and parents can plant the seeds of compassionate action in the the hearts of children. We can start businesses which use ethical means and which produce positive results for our society, environment and individuals. I invite everyone to contribute to this page and to make it a rallying point for ideas that can impact the world in a positive way.
Gassho,
Kevin C. Nelson
Kevin,
ReplyDeleteIt seems that you and I are on the same path. I just wrote about being a Fierce Buddhist and to taking a stand against tyranny and abuses. If you have the time you can check it out at.
http://fiercebuddhist.wordpress.com/2011/03/15/buddhist/
Amituofo
Hello Kevin I am from London...where at the moment there are people who are Buddhist and not Buddhist standing up for the values you are talking about. I gave a short talk to these people a few weeks ago on the steps of St. Pauls Cathederal London about our Buddhist teachings, a very short talk....I know these people are going to be the begining of a movement that really can change our society for the better and happier....
ReplyDeleteI am SO pleased that you are running this group, it feels so exciting and at last, what in many ways we need and I have been looking for. I agree in the way you say we can help our society. I walked up to central London yesterday and had two lessons of the sadness of "not caring for others"....it was as if life gave me these snaps of suffering to show me, yet again, why I really follow the teachings I do. Looking forward to talking to others on this group. Thank You. Suzanne