Basic Goodness

We want to live in a world of peace and goodness. We want a world where the highest values are tolerance, generosity, creativity,kindness, and fearlessness rather than self-absorption, aggression, and speed.

A single glance at today’s news will tell you that we are at a crossroads. But we still have time to create a good future.

Politics, strategies, wars, and religions have not solved our problems. An internal shift is required. On first glance, it may not sound like much but it actually has the power to change everything.

We all know—can feel—that there is an enormous collective longing for a world that operates on principles of sanity. But where to begin?

All you have to do is know beyond doubt that you are good, that you possess inherent worth and value.

When you do, something extraordinary happens. You come into your power. Your confidence rises and your distrust lessens. Your world becomes full of possibility rather than hassles. You see that others also possess this goodness and your heart opens to them.

None of this means that we won’t have sorrow, rage,disappointment, and confusion. We will. But we discover a way to conquer them.

When we approach ourselves, others, and our world as basically good rather than basically bad, our actions, words, intentions,aspirations, gestures, energy—everything—change. This subtle shift in our state of mind can alter the environment we live in. It can actually change the world.

Each of us holds human destiny in our hands. It will be completely determined, not by what we think, but by how we feel. Do we want a world where everyone feels they are basically good, worthy, and kind? I believe we do.

We invite you to join the effort to declare the truth of goodness and reaffirm our collective belief in ourselves, our fellow humans,and our world.

The Basic Goodness Manifesto:

I trust in my own and others’ goodness.

I know that caring changes everything.

I trust my heart.

I trust you.

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Join us this Thursday for our Open House!

This Weekly Dharma Gathering is a perfect introduction to the Shambhala Buddhist teachings and an opportunity to connect with other practitioners. It begins with a group meditation practice, a talk by one of our senior teachers, discussion, and a reception. Learn more…

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