Shundo David Haye – Zen Priest

‘The practice of mindful service becomes a powerful tool for dissolving the rigid boundaries of self and others that create so much suffering. When we encounter someone in need and respond naturally—like helping someone who has tripped on the street—we don’t agonize over whether we “should” help or worry about all the other people we could be assisting instead. The offer of aid arises spontaneously from a heart that recognizes the need that is present at that moment.

In the same way, we don’t need to become overwhelmed by the vastness of suffering in the world. Buddhist wisdom teaches us to be realistic about our capacities while remaining open to the genuine needs that are before us. We cannot save everyone, but we can serve wholeheartedly in the circumstances where we find ourselves. A teacher serves through teaching, a parent through parenting, and a friend through friendship. The form matters less than the quality of presence and care that we bring.

The liberated heart is not passive; it engages actively with the world. It does so with an orientation, a motivation, and an inspiration to act with the recognition that caring for ourself, our meditation spot, our home, our community, and our world are all expressions of the same understanding. The circles of care expand naturally: we care for the place where we practice, the community in which we practice, and the world around us until we recognize that the whole universe is our temple.’ (from the Insight Retreat Center website)