Buddhists have a special connection to the natural world: they regard it as sacred, but also as fragile and at times in need of protection from its residents. That special connection is at the heart of what it means to be Zen Buddhist — we are not individuals in our own bubble but are inter-dependent and linked to each other and our environment.
Inter-connectedness is achieved through self-transformation, that is, by subordinating the self to the greater whole. In doing so, we can’t help but develop a stronger sense of social responsibility. The cautiousness that comes with greater responsibility makes it easier to accept the possibility that global warming is real — in other words, if you’re not sure whether or not to believe the scientists about global warming, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Click on the arrow below to listen to the fascinating discussion with David Loy on how we can come together to solve the problem and develop a sense of responsibility for our planet.
If you’d like more information on David Loy or learn more about the Buddhist tradition, go to davidloy.org