We stand on the precipice. Blinded by ignorance, fear, anger, and self-interest we step closer and closer to the edge.
In the darkness, together we will fall, leaving only our sorrow to be shared.
Kindness isn't a quality that is owned or possessed by any one group, ethnicity, religion, or nation. Kindness is driven by the innate capacity for empathy we all possess. Its that empathy, and the kindness we exercise, that bridges the constructs and conditions that separate us.
The wise use valid criticism to learn and grow. Mindfully, tethering their egos from moving one way or the other; thereby saving themselves the pain of future regret.
#Sarnath a small deer park not far from #Varanasi is where the #Buddha turned the Wheel of #Dharma for the first time. In a sermon to his first five disciples, he shared the Four Noble Truths. Which was to become a fundamental tenet of Buddhist philosophy.
It's our propensity to seek comfort, familiar patterns & fear of the #unknown that prevents us from fully engaging in the potential generated by the constant change in front of us.
#Clinging & #fear will not prevent #change. They will only rob us of the #possibilities they offer.
When we place greater levels of importance on our own identities, and not our shared humanity; we close the door to empathy and compassion, and open the door to indifference and suffering.
#Boudhanath Stupa in #Kathmandu#Nepal is one of the world's largest stupas & is believed to hold the relics of Kashyapa Buddha. The stupa's origin story is also deeply connected to Guru Rinpoche & is holy place for both Nepalese and Tibetan Buddhists. https://t.co/p84kzAnI6p
The balance of kindness in the world, is directly impacted by the kindness we offer the world.
Through our thoughts, words, & deeds each of us contributes.
Each of us is given a choice.
Our lives are a reflection of that choice.
Our world is a reflection of our collective choice.