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.

SEEING THE FLAWED AS FLAWED: full moon - Wednesday 5th November 2025

The clear seeing that knows
that which is flawed as flawed,
and that which is pure as pure,
can lead beings to transcend misery.

DHAMMAPADA v. 319

Can we view that which is flawed as flawed without adding an indignant, It shouldn’t be this way? The simple perception of how things should and shouldn’t be is not so much the issue. It is by getting lost in feelings of wild indignation that we contribute to the chaos. Compared with an imaginary world where beings aren’t acting out of greed, hatred and delusion, then yes, our world shouldn’t be this way. However, surely we need to acknowledge that the reason things are this way is that there are causes. If we remember to bring careful attention to the causes for the misery, then we will be in a better position to make a difference.