Equality Buddha

As we, along with much of the world, wrestle with social changes and what it takes to truly live in freedom, I turn to the Buddha's teachings again and again. They really hep as I work out where I stand on certain social issues. I feel grateful to have a framework for me to practice equanimity.  Like many of us, I have not always had an open view on all things-- our upbringing and cultural inheritances shape us.  I have found so much freedom in opening my heart to treating all people with the same dignity and respect as I would my own mother.  It's my interpretation of the Buddha's teachings that his position on equality is absolutely clear and simple: Everyone should be treated equally because, regardless of all our beautiful differences, we each have Buddha nature-- the ability to become enlightened.  

I am mindfully excited to announce one of our monastics, Bhante Bhaddiya, will be making these Buddha statues and have them available for purchase at the temple and online.  I find they are a wonderful visual tool to remind me it's essential to know we are all one, and that respect for all people and acceptance of our differences is what makes this whole world work.  

Such a wonderful time for us all to hold one another in the heart of Buddha's teachings.