Buddhism: Compassion is Key…

Even the wicked deserve compassion, because it’s never too late for them to change their wicked ways. As a matter of fact, it’s mandatory, because otherwise, if we accept that there are certain ‘kinds’ of people, then we are denying free will to those who need it most, the habitually wicked and morally compromised. And, if forgiveness is too Christian for you, then just call it compassion, and don’t worry about who did what way back when and then started it again just when you almost forgot it.

The important thing is to mitigate the suffering and promote reconciliation, even if that means foregoing some choice words and fierce jabs in the heat of battle with no breaks to be had, just compassion. Because language is not always a solution and often is the problem itself. That’s no surprise, since, in the history of the world, it’s obvious that homo sapiens only came to reign supreme with the advent of language and the advantages that brought to the battlefield—and the bedroom.

So, if the bottom line of any Buddhist equation is self-control, then so be it. Because it requires no self, and not much control, really, just wise decisions and the ability to pull punches and hold your temper. It’s hard these days, true, what with politics flying and tempers flaring all for the cost of a taco, but even more necessary because of its prevalence. What happens to us when we’re angry and hateful all the time? That’s no way to live and an even worse way to die. Control yourself to control the situation. Forego the heat of battle to gain the coolness and calmness of forbearance.