It’s Still a New Year!….Be Radical

Sue Smith - FEB 01, 2017
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The word “radical”, according to a pocket dictionary at hand, most simply means “favoring fundamental change”. What a way to start a new year…with fundamental change. After all, we know that nothing is permanent so why not embrace the philosophy of impermanence by embracing change?

Embracing change is truly a radical idea. It is human nature to like our cozy little corners and ways that we know so well. Psychologists tell us that the human mind prefers a negative known situation over the unknown. But when we look at the universe we can see that change really is the norm.

When the Buddha left his royal family to live the life of an ascetic, his family certainly thought he was being radical. It was such a change! But then those of his ascetic community thought he was being radical when he reverted to a life of luxury by eating more than a grain of rice a day. And when he broke with tradition and rejected the caste system for his community……what a radical!! But to say that not only some things, but all things change, was about as radical as it gets and still is true today. That idea makes so many people so uncomfortable.

But what happens if we accept that things change and embrace the idea? Isn’t it liberating?? It’s an idea that not only gives us permission to be agents of our own personal change, but frees us from the notion that things need to stay the same to be “o.k.” It is an idea that can also relieve our suffering when we do not like certain changes (maybe political?) that we see. Have heart; they will change again.

So, as we continue in this new year, let’s be radical. Let’s favor fundamental change….be positive, be kind and “BE the change you want to see in the world!”

Namaste

Pura Vida Sangha is a sangha in the tradition of Zen Master Venerable Thich Nhat Hanh. The sangha meets for meditation at the Rip Jack Inn in Playa Grande. No meditation experience is necessary. Please email meditationcostarica@gmail.com for more information.