In Buddhism, our thoughts are extremely important for as the Buddha said, “Everything arises from the mind and changes according to our perceptions.” So if we wish to accomplish something such as moving forward with social policy, we begin with the one thing we can truly influence and hope to control—our own thoughts, own mindset.
Let’s first consider what the mindset of a person working for positive social policy should not be. History shows us that intolerance and egoistic thinking that I am right, and if you think differently then clearly you are wrong, has not brought about a peaceful world where all enjoy happiness and freedom from fear and want.
If thoughts of intolerance and egoism have not worked, what might? What personal qualities might we wish to foster?
Respect. The first of the Ten Great Vows in Buddhism is to respect all Buddhas. Not just the Buddhas of the past but also of the future. Believing that all beings have the ability to attain the mind state of an awakened one, we interpret “respect all Buddhas” as impartially respecting all beings. Those of other ethical teachings or faiths could look at the people and beings who are held in sincere respect and then extend widely that respect to others.
Patience. In everything we do, we need to be forbearing and persevering. Things that truly matter take patience. Clarifying our thoughts so we can express them clearly takes patience. Working with those who think differently from us takes patience. Listening—and hearing—others takes patience. Improving society takes patience.
Humility. The mindset of humility is that there is much I can learn from others. Indeed, humility is an excellent way to understand how others live, what they hope for and aspire to. It comes from security in one’s beliefs and who one is.
Humility comes from strength, not from weakness.
While insecure people may strike out at others, those who are humble, while perhaps being thought of as insecure, may well be very comfortable in their skin. Having accepted themselves, they do not worry about being accepted by others. Thus they are able to focus on, listen to, and learn from others without becoming agitated or feeling threatened. They can remain calm and that calm will be felt by others who in merely sensing that calm benefit from it.
Usually it is about this point that someone will ask me about the horrendous events our world has witnessed and witnesses. How can we be respectful and patient in the face of prejudice, ignorance, and hatred? I sincerely suggest that such events are not where we begin.
I don’t know about you, but I do not have any influence over what happens on the world stage. I venture to suggest that for most of us qualities like respect, patience, and humility are developed on a considerably smaller stage: with family, friends, and associates. If we become good at and develop these and other qualities, then hopefully we will have the conditions to effect a positive social change on a larger stage. We certainly hope so. But first, I propose we begin with ourselves.