True Peace Work by Parallax Press

Author:Parallax Press
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Parallax Press
Published: 2019-09-30T16:00:00+00:00

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We were present at the conference not just as participants or as observers, but as practitioners. We remembered Thay’s teaching that our presence is our message: the way we look and walk can show the depth of our participation.

With our long robes, shaved heads, and gentle pace, we stood out among the sharp suits and high heels: occupied people, striding in haste, hands on cellphones. This contrast challenged us and reminded us of our purpose: not to get some kind of outcome, not to lose our self or our contact with the Earth, but to love the Earth in each step. We tried our best to be aware and hear the cry of Mother Earth when we walked, and to be grateful to Mother Earth when we sat down to eat our lunch.

Our delegation was a catalyst for connection. People smiled, approached us, sat down with us, and many wanted to ask us questions. Who are you? What are you asking for? Everyone’s here to hash out a political deal—what do you have to contribute? We also asked ourselves: can we really help? Do the people here need more views and ideas from us? Or something else?

Thay has taught us that this is not just a technological, economic, or political crisis, but a spiritual crisis. What spiritual medicine can we offer, and how? How can we be the voice of Mother Earth in each interview? How can we bear witness to her not just as inanimate planet, but as living spirit? We remembered the image of a monk sitting in the temple while bombs are falling outside. What does being a monastic today have to do with the climate crisis?

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