Dharma for a Difficult Time

JACK KORNFIELD

Whatever your point of view,
take time to quiet the mind and tend to the heart.
Then go out and look at the sky.

Remember vastness, there are seasons to all things—
gain and loss, praise and blame, expansion and contraction.
Learn from the trees.
Practice equanimity and steadiness.

Remember the timeless dharma amidst it all.
Think of the best of human goodness.
Let yourself become a beacon of integrity, with your thoughts, words and deeds.
Integrity in speech and action, virtue, and non-harming bring blessings.

Remember the Noble Truths, no matter the politics or the season:
Greed, hatred and ignorance cause suffering.
Let them go.
Love, generosity, and wisdom bring the end of suffering.
Foster them.

Remember the Buddha’s counsel,
“Hatred never ends by hatred but by love alone is healed.  This is the ancient and eternal law.”

The human heart has freedom to choose love, dignity, and respect.
In every circumstance, embody respect and cultivate compassion for all.

Let yourself become a beacon of dharma.
Amidst the changes, shine with courage and trust.

This is your world.  Plant seeds of goodness and water them everywhere.

Then blessings will grow for yourself and for all. 

From:  After the Election:  Buddhist Wisdom for Hope & Healing