In the last few weeks I've spoken with a variety of people who, each in his or her own way, voiced a common concern: what does one do in the face of hurt, or harmful social structures and environments, or systematic injustice? participate? withdraw? how does one practice in such a world?
Buddhism, near as I can tell, is rather unique in offering no alternative reality to the present one. There is no heaven, no Walhalla, no paradise-on-earth. Just this. Nirvana is not an alternative reality, either. It is, as Hakuin so aptly puts it, openly shown to our eyes. This earth is the Buddha-land, this body the body of Buddha. There is no some other somewhere.
It probably doesn't help to hear that in the thick of one's questioning. Words are cheap. I also don't think one can just hear those words and understand. This kind of understanding is hard-won, the fruit of concerted practice.
All I find myself saying in such circumstances, then, is, "Practice. Practice harder, and harder yet. Practice until the line between participation and withdrawal disappears."
The Dharma is a healing salve. It's not just a parlor game or pleasant pastime. There is release, but it is not bought cheaply. It costs you your very life as you have known it so far.
Buddhism, near as I can tell, is rather unique in offering no alternative reality to the present one. There is no heaven, no Walhalla, no paradise-on-earth. Just this. Nirvana is not an alternative reality, either. It is, as Hakuin so aptly puts it, openly shown to our eyes. This earth is the Buddha-land, this body the body of Buddha. There is no some other somewhere.
It probably doesn't help to hear that in the thick of one's questioning. Words are cheap. I also don't think one can just hear those words and understand. This kind of understanding is hard-won, the fruit of concerted practice.
All I find myself saying in such circumstances, then, is, "Practice. Practice harder, and harder yet. Practice until the line between participation and withdrawal disappears."
The Dharma is a healing salve. It's not just a parlor game or pleasant pastime. There is release, but it is not bought cheaply. It costs you your very life as you have known it so far.