Human dignity is independent of national borders. We must always defend the interests of the persecuted in other countries.
Fasting in the monastic community is considered an ascetic practice, a “dhutanga” practice. Dhutanga means “to shake up” or “invigoration”. The Buddha, as is well known, emphasized moderation, the Middle Way that avoids extremes, in all things. Fasting is an additional method that one can take up, with supervision, for a time.
Vacuity, tranquillity, mellowness, quietness and taking no action characterise things of the universe at peace and represent the ultimate Tao and virtue. Therefore abide in them.
Reverence for life affords me my fundamental principle of morality, namely that good consists in maintaining, assisting, and enhancing life, and that to destroy, to harm, or to hinder life is evil.
