One human nation

My heart and deepest condolences go out to the Japanese people in this terrible time.  It is at times like these that we are reminded of our humanity.  A tragedy like theirs can happen to any nation at any time, we are reminded of  fundamental Buddhist teachings of impermanence and interdependence.

Buddha taught that everything is in constant flux and that change can come at anytime for any reason.  That although we like to think we are in total control, we are not, and can never be.  We are just as vulnerable as an ant, a tiger or a simple feather floating in the wind.

Buddha also taught that we are all connected and that we all rely on each other in some form or another.  So practicing the cultivation of loving-kindness is an essential part of Buddhist philosophy.  By helping other we help ourselves. 


I am certain that Japan, being a predominantly Buddhist country will no doubt recover and rebuild as they have done in the past.  In the meantime they will need support and help with their search and rescue efforts and eventual rebuilding.  


I would encourage that individuals give something to the American Red Cross for the disaster relief.  We need to help the people that brought us Nintendo, Toyota, Anime, Sake and Sushi; (and for those food network fans, Masaharu Morimoto).  They are an integral part of our culture and although we may speak different languages we are all bound by one common thread which is our humanity.


-P