Originally Posted by
Adam
Hello everyone,
I've tried to take some time to disconnect from everything virtual and focus on my practice. It's been a few months since I've posted on Treeleaf, so I come back with an 'new' thought. Catching up on news around the world and very local happenings, I've noticed an increase in negative views on other section of the populations (race, religion, etc.). I was wondering, when is it more wise to give a voice to the voiceless; than to keep oneself silent? When is it appropriate to be an advicate for someone that cannot defend themselves? Just some thoughts that I've had lately....thanks for your time (after such a long silence).
Gassho,
Adam
I do not know if Zen Practice itself always tells us when to act ... or when it is best to not act (
sometimes allowing events to play out is the best course) ... in any particular and complicated situation of life. Sometimes life is far from black and white ... and sometimes a single course has pros and cons.
But Zazen Practice does afford us that space of silence wherein our heart may be heard ... and things we had not previously perceived can be first perceived ... and perhaps we will feel what is the best course for us and others (
not two) in that particular instant.
Further, we do Vow to
Save All Sentient Beings. This saving may take many forms.
I feel that it is always Right Speech to speak up for tolerance in society and the world among all groups ... racial, national. sexual, political ... all groups. That does not mean that we cannot offer constructive and positive criticism of others when spoken gently and with Loving Kindness. However, we should all live and let live together in this world. So, I think there is never a wrong time to speak for tolerance.
Furthermore, it is always Right Speech to give a voice to those who lack. We should all be active in our communities giving voice to problems, and to people, that need attention brought to their cause. Like Aitken Roshi, The Dalai Lama, Thich Nhat Hanh, so many others ... we should constantly speak out for peace, justice, equality ...
Gassho, J