Ep. 265 – Navigating Politics, Impermanence, Suffering, and the Great Turning of the World
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Nov 26, 2024
Jack dives into navigating the complexities of politics, encouraging a mindful approach to change and uncertainty. He reflects on the interconnectedness of humanity and nature amidst global issues like climate change and artificial intelligence. The discussion touches on the importance of compassion and community as we face suffering and transformation. With insights from Buddhist teachings, he inspires listeners to embrace impermanence and find freedom through acceptance, fostering resilience in our shared human experience.
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Finding Clarity
Step back and center yourself amidst fear and anger.
See anew with your heart and the eyes of wisdom.
insights INSIGHT
The World as an Organism
The world isn't a problem to be solved, but a living being we belong to.
We are part of life's rhythms and the consciousness of this time.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Tending to Your Inner World
Tend to your heart and mind amidst complexity.
Find a way to quiet your mind and keep your heart steady and loving.
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The Bhagavad Gita is a central text in Hinduism, embedded within the epic Mahabharata. It recounts a dialogue between the warrior-prince Arjuna and his charioteer, Krishna, who is an avatar of the god Vishnu. The text explores themes of dharma (duty), karma (action), and the path to spiritual enlightenment. Krishna advises Arjuna on the importance of performing his duties without attachment to the outcomes, emphasizing the concept of nishkama karma (nonattached action). The Gita synthesizes various strands of Indian religious thought, including Vedic concepts, samkhya yoga, and bhakti (devotion), providing a coherent vision of Hindu philosophy and spiritual practice[2][4][5].
Grist for the mill
Ram Dass
Reflecting on the election, Jack explores how we can most mindfully and lovingly dance with impermanence, suffering, and ‘the great turning’ of the world.
“It’s not about an election one way or the other, they come and go. There’s such huge other forces happening right now—climate change, artificial intelligence, nuclear fusion energy—huge possibilities and huge problems. As T.S. Elliot says, ‘In my end is my beginning.’ Everything that turns offers a new openness and beginning for something else.” – Jack Kornfield
In this fresh episode, Jack mindfully explores:
Navigating the election and politics in a changing world
Returning to the basics of Buddhism and living a wise spiritual life
Quieting the mind, tending the heart, listening to the cries, and seeing with the eyes of wisdom
What Ajahn Chah’s wisdom for the election results would be
Opening to change, honoring impermanence, facing suffering
Annica – the wisdom of uncertainty
Navigating the “Great Turning” of the world
Shifting from exploitive and consumer consciousness to one of interdependence and mutual care
Facing our suffering, warfare, racism, aging, death, loss, and change
The Zen view of the “dew drop” world
How annica, dukka, anatta connect with nirvana and unshakeable freedom
To end the illusion of separation
Politics as a form of ritualized warfare
Standing up like Arjuna in the Bhagavad Gita
Human history as also containing compassion, courage, and sweetness
Finding refuge in Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha
Living from unconditional love and a freedom from fear
The transformative power of community
Our inexorable connection to all the great Saints, Gods, and to the Great Mystery
“You get to choose your spirit. No matter what.” – Jack Kornfield
"We know that we're not separate. You know it especially when you're on the mountaintop looking down after some amazing hike, or listening to a piece of music that transports you beyond the small sense of self. You know it when you make love, or take psychedelics, or have some profound meditation, or dance until you disappear. We all know it." – Jack Kornfield
Heart Wisdom with Jack Kornfield 
