Which is a more effective way of engaging with the world, of changing the world? Should we undertake to fight evil where it is seen, to crush those who cause it? Is there any hope for a pacifist approach? Or is that frame backward? Should we instead ask, is there any hope for a warlike approach? Rather than imagining that pacifism might be at all effective, perhaps we should wonder if perhaps it can be more effective.

What is awakening? Why is it such a big deal? Why do people describe it in so many different ways?

The concept of dana, making offerings at teachings, is customary in Buddhist cultures, but a bit fraught in non-Buddhist cultures. This article goes into some detail on my own thoughts about the practice, and how to approach it in a non-Buddhist culture. I don’t claim that I’m right, but I hope that this is at least food for thought.

Which is more important: leaders, or followers? What makes a good leader? These are questions that are often asked, but it’s hard to get any clarity by asking these questions.