A Buddhist Perspective by Jan McHarry, FbRN Trustee

Buddhist teachings encourage the development of a greater sense of awareness through compassion, kindness, generosity, and selfless action for the welfare of all beings and the world. Living in harmony with nature is inseparable from living in harmony with each other. From a Buddhist perspective it is our lack of insight into the interconnectedness of life that lies at the root of much suffering today.  Actions have consequences. The Buddha taught that there is a natural  law of karma, according to which acts based on kindly intentions always have beneficial consequences, whereas acts whose motives are selfish have painful consequences. Faith-based social action is thus a vital means to personal and social transformation.

The Dalai Lama, the Tibetan spiritual leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, reminds us “ Today we have access to more information and it is essential that we re-examine ethically what we have inherited, what we are responsible for, and what we will pass on to coming generations. “ 

London Buddhist Centre and Breathing Space Programme

Meditation in London
The LBC is one of the largest urban Buddhist Centres in the West.

Do not overlook tiny good actions, thinking they are of no benefit; even tiny drops of water in the end will fill a huge vessel.

 

Attributed to The Buddha

Your work is to discover your work and then with all your heart give yourself to it.

The Buddha (6th Centrury B.C.)