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20 EASTERN HORIZON | TEACHINGS

of how things are. I can accept what’s happening and We also have to marvel at the kindness that people are
assess the situation with a clear mind.” Furthermore, showing one another during this difficult time. Many
while Buddha didn’t teach that things are illusionary, people are reaching out to help others—think of the
he described how they are like illusions in that, upon kindness of the essential workers who risk their lives—
analysis, they don’t exist in the way that they appear. and society is showing its appreciation.
With proper understanding, this too is a relief.
A human response
Have a clear mind Of course, some Buddhists also experience fear and
That doesn’t mean we just let the entire freight load grief, anxiety and regret, outrage and utter heartbreak.
of ills riding on the back of the coronavirus to trample I’m not claiming immunity from normal, human
us. But having accepted the situation, we can do so reactions to tragedy and loss. But Buddha teaches that
with a clear mind that’s not distorted by the additional disturbing emotions are key links in the chain of causes
grief of railing, “This shouldn’t be happening!” In fact, that induce our suffering. So, ideally, we draw from his
this is happening. Now, with a loving heart, let’s see how 84,000 teachings to apply the antidotes to our fears.
we can help others, regardless of who they are or what We take this experience onto the spiritual path with
they believe. Our wish is to relieve suffering, no matter confidence in another of the Buddha’s core teachings:
whose it is. That liberation from suffering and its causes is possible.

In addition, Buddhists are meditating and praying With faith and the aspiration to care for every being, we
to calm our own minds and hearts and to cultivate can bring joy into the actions we take to benefit others.
qualities like love, compassion, wisdom and skill so EH
that we are balanced and prepared to bring benefit.
Although we call on the assistance of fully awakened
beings, we know we have to do our part, too. Prayer isn’t
sufficient; action is necessary.

Are you searching for a spiritually challenging work?

Do you enjoy meeting fellow Dharma practitioners, Buddhist leaders, and Dharma
masters? Would you like to introduce the latest Buddhist book you read recently?
How about researching into the latest web-sites on Buddhist activities around the
world? And of course, what about telling us how you first came in contact with
the dharma and what the dharma means to you today. Well, if you find all of these
interesting, we can make it spiritually challenging for you too!

In every issue of EASTERN HORIZON, we publish special chat sessions with leading
Buddhist personalities, essays on all aspects of Buddhism, book reviews, and news
and activities that are of interest to the Buddhist community. We need someone
to help us in all these projects. If you are keen to be part of this exciting magazine,
please e-mail to the editor at Bennyliow@gmail.com, and we will put you in touch
with what’s challenging for the next issue!

Let us share the dharma for the benefit of all sentient beings!

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