Some years ago, science fiction writer Frank Herbert wrote: "Fear is the mind killer, fear is the little death".
On September 11th, 2001, (now being called Black Tuesday) fear became horrendous death, in the shape of four hi-jacked commercial passenger jets, deliberately crashed into the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and a verdant Pennsylvania field. In the face of such barbaric acts, such tremendous loss of human lives, how can I write the encouraging, peaceful article I had intended on fighting fear as a hindrance to enlightenment? In all conscience, I cannot.
So I shall write a passionate one instead!
The Dhammapada says, "Not by hate is hate defeated; hate is quenched by love. This is the eternal law."
Are you feeling angry? Are you hoping for revenge for the deaths? Are you looking with suspicion at your co-workers, neighbors, even your friends who are also Americans? Are you concerned about their culture, their religious practices, and the color of their skin?
Do you understand that this is exactly how evil operates? It creates doubt, fear, and suspicion. These mind states cause prejudice, oppression and suffering.
Of course you are angry! Of course you are afraid! These mind states arise when the conditions are correct (oh, and they most certainly are) for them to arise. You are a human being...and, one with a conscience.
Well, look around you. Your other American friends are angry, too-the Arabs, Egyptians, and all other persons of various colors, cultures and faiths that were born right here. The land of the free is where we all live, and the home of the brave is their home, too!
In Frank Metcalf's book, "What Would Buddha Do?", he quotes the Jatakamala, 14.11: "Throw away your pitiful apathy and act boldly in this crisis! A wise person shows energy and resolve; success is in his power, no matter what." Rest assured, the United States will overcome her enemies.
But, please, I implore you to check out Tolerance.Org Fight your prejudice as the enemy itself...
I read recently that worry can be defined as, "a series of negative thoughts and images that intrude into awareness in an uncontrolled manner." A Buddhist parable compares our thoughts to many different animals all roped together, each one seeking its home and taking turns dragging the others this way and that, depending on which is strongest at a given moment. As I read it, the mere image of this chaotic cacophony was enough to get my attention! I, for one, do not relish the idea of being pulled about by my emotions in such a manner-do you? And certainly not by terrorists.
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