certain that we can succeed in helping all people of the world understand and appreciate the importance of these profound ideals. Let's begin by talking about equality. From ancient times, people have pondered the meaning and importance of equality, but when it comes to actually implementing this ideal in the real world, their efforts have often failed. There are several Buddhist principles that can help us to better understand the deep meaning of equality and how to practice it in daily life. Buddhists often say "All sentient beings and Buddhas are equal," "Essence and form are equal," "Self and others are equal," "Phenomena and principles are equal," and "Being and nonbeing are equal." These basic principles of Buddhism help to elucidate the following four points: Equality among people completely depends on their having mutual respect for one another. Confucius said, "He who respects others will be respected himself, and he who loves others will be loved by them." Equality among people can never be attained through the use of force. When there is full, mutual respect among people, then we will be able to create a world in which equality prevails. Like the former division between East and West Germany and the current division between North and South Korea, and also in the Balkans, as long as weapons and anger are employed to solve these sorts of problems, peace can never be attained. When people are respectful and caring of one another, miracles can happen. In 1989, the Berlin Wall crumbled. Even more importantly, at that time, the invisible walls within people's hearts also gave way. With this wall destroyed, the German people discovered a level of mutual respect and mutual concern that helped them to effect a reunification, which has been largely peaceable and equitable for everyone.
2
Made with FlippingBook - Online Brochure Maker