Drawing Inspiration
As Buddhists, especially those of us who follow the greater vehicle, we say the words 'for the sake of all sentient beings', but in practice, when it comes to doing anything for others, we lack any determination or drive. We say something nice, while in actuality we retain our selfish ways.
This failing of ours is holding us back, both in our personal development on the path and the development of Buddhism as a whole.
I heard a couple of stories recently related to this that moved me. I thought I'd share them with you.
In the 1970s, there were no Christians in Nepal, and now there are a few hundred thousand and thousands of churches and groups.
Several years ago, two young American ladies moved to Nubri (a remote area in Nepal) as missionaries. They learnt the local language, adopted the local dress, embedded themselves in the community and gradually converted many people there to Christianity. They had quite a significant influence.
We should take a moment to reflect on what they took upon themselves to further their religion. They moved from the material comfort of America to a poor region of Nepal, high up in the cold mountains, leaving their family and friends behind.
These were not influential Christian priests but two young Christian women with drive and faith in their religion.
If I were ever to meet them, I would offer them a kata and my gratitude. I appreciate people like that, who have the courage of their convictions and, with faith and vision, do what they can to further their religion. You can't help but admire them.
How many standard lay Buddhists think about benefiting Buddhism and bringing it to people who do not have access to it at the moment? They assume it is the work of the lamas to do this sort of thing and none of their business.
It seems that it is illegal to propagate other religions in Nepal. I didn't know this because Buddhism is already widespread in Nepal, so we don't have issues giving teachings, etc.
A group of Christian missionaries came from Korea to Nepal and successfully converted people in the Kathmandu area. At one point, several of them were arrested and faced a lot of trouble on several fronts.
They would've known in advance that they were likely to encounter difficulties and strife, but they didn't let that deter them. Again, they had drive, faith and determination.
I say this because it shows a stark contrast from what we see us Buddhists doing, and Buddhism is waning as a consequence of this.
Drupon Khen Rinpoche
05.10.23 Hong Kong