The Way Things Appear: full moon - Friday 5th December 2025

It is easy to do that which is
of no real benefit to oneself;
it is difficult indeed to do that
which is truly beneficial and good.

Dhammapada 163

When we register just how complex and challenging this human existence has become, the task of trying to change it can appear impossible. There is already enough evidence showing how powerful technology causes fragmentation, both within communities and individuals, contributing to despair. There is also evidence that unimaginably good things can happen. If you have ever broken a bone, the recovery process takes time. Healing doesn’t happen according to our preferences – though healing can happen. The task of addressing the suffering in our world, inwardly and outwardly, takes effort. Let us not just settle for the way things merely appear to be. May the Buddha’s wisdom serve to inspire us.

ACCUMULATING BLESSING: full moon - 22nd May, 2024

“Blessed is the arising of a Buddha;
blessed is the revealing of the Dhamma;
blessed is the concord of the Sangha;
delightful is harmonious communion.”

_{DHAMMAPADA v. 194}

There is a strong emphasis in our Buddhist teachings on suffering. It’s important we balance this with an appreciation of the encouragement to build up a storehouse of wholesomeness. According to the Commentaries, this Dhammapada verse was spoken by the Buddha on an occasion when he walked in on a group of monks discussing what happiness is. He highlighted what he saw as reliable happiness. On many occasions he taught about the skilful cultivation of happiness. When we are called upon to deal with life’s difficulties, it matters that we have reserves to draw upon. It is wise to not wait until we are feeling overly challenged.