On the Minister's Mind

by Rev. Laine Morgan

On Monday, July 6th, the Dalai Lama will turn 91.  His life story is fascinating, and I encourage you to read about him.  He is the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, teaching mindfulness, joy, compassion and harmony.  He states often that his religion is kindness, and he firmly believes conflicts are solved through dialogue. 

The Dalai Lama can see the truest nature of all human beings, knowing that at our deepest core, we all value the same things – compassion, sharing, helping one another, and love. In other words, he sees Divinity in everyone.

I deeply appreciate his unwavering optimism in the face of such tumultuous world events as those we witness, but he also affirms that we must collectively choose to improve.  He writes -

"We have a universal responsibility to change the course of history, to guide it in a more positive direction, a universal order that works for the welfare of the whole of humankind, and all sentient beings. Such a civilization with a heart, a planetary society animated by the deepest values of the human family--selfless love; compassion; kindness; non-harming; sharing; and the elimination of poverty, homelessness, disease, hunger, domestic violence, and weapons of mass-destruction--can become an actuality even in our lifetimes if we are willing to work for it. We have this responsibility, both individually and collectively, and this responsibility extends to the whole earth itself. If we can envision it, then we have an alternative."

This is an important message for us as we celebrate the anniversary of the founding of our own country this week.  We can all clearly see how far we have yet to go to live up to our ideals, especially as described by the Dalai Lama.  But, let us stand with him in the faith that we can make these values our lived reality in our individual life, and in doing so, contribute to the betterment of the whole. Let us recommit ourselves to extending selfless love, compassion and kindness to all, as we vow to do no harm. 

He goes on to write - "One thing is for certain: given human beings' love of truth, justice, peace, and freedom, creating a more compassionate world is a genuine possibility."

So, as we affirm our own personal love for truth, justice, peace and freecom, let us hold the vision of the country we cherish stepping up to join us in living those highest values out loud. Creating a more compassionate country is possible.  I just know it.