Editorial

At the end of last year, I attended a management seminar where many 'pundits' and economic analysts painted a bleak picture for 2009. Among the attendees there were nods and sighs of despair, and gloom hung heavily in the air throughout the room. I felt a bit odd being one who did not share their outlook, though I do sympathize with many of them as they lost heavily in their business 'investments', and some may be about to lose their jobs.

I suppose years of seeing things through the Buddhist lens has immunized me from the excitement and dejection of economic boom and bust. We always maintain our calm by reciting the mantra: Sabbe sankhara anicca’ti - all components things are impermanent.

Nevertheless, in my frequent travels and meetings with Buddhist communities throughout the region, I truly feel that the hearts of many people have a joyful beat. Their lives do not revolve around the Dow Jones and Hang Seng indices. In fact, most of their lives do not even revolve around themselves! These are the shining examples and humble servants of humanity. They provide selfless service in many forms for the welfare and happiness of others. Monks, nuns and lay people all feature prominently in this industry of altruistic living.

Altruism is one’s genuine concern for the welfare of others. In fact, the word "altruism" is derived from the Latin 'alter', meaning "others". It is considered a noble virtue in almost every culture, and forms the core teachings of many religions. Buddhism, too, espouses altruistic living. We live and work for the benefit and happiness of the many, out of compassion for the world (Bahujana hitaya bahujana sukhaya lokanu- kampaya). A true Buddhist disciple is guided by righteousness, wisdom, and mettā-karunā (altruistic love and compassion).