Interdependence and the coronavirus

Although the Coronavirus epidemic began some time ago, only now have some countries, including ours, realized that the world is one. A factual and spiritual truth, increasingly perceived, but not necessarily understood by all humans without exception, due to the level of global integration in which we live. But there are still those who doubt and disdain this eternal and unavoidable interdependence that connects all beings.

But the Other Power, the one not under the dominion of our decisions and efforts, willed that at this moment of worsening pandemic I find myself among the Ashaninka people, in a place that means "Navel of the World," in the middle of the Amazon rainforest, in Acre, when a pandemic explodes that is frightening the entire Planet.

The pandemic is connecting the world, rescuing a still precarious sense of interdependence, but unfortunately not yet through solidarity and empathy, but through the individual fear of death. We must take care of ourselves and others to contain the spread of the Coronavirus. But let it not stop there. 

This is a precious moment, in which we can observe lessons that, in more comfortable and tranquil times, we avoid learning. The Coronavirus is not fake news, nor a punishment. It is what it is. A pandemic. It is itself impermanent, like health and our own lives. It will pass.

We grieve for its victims. We will grieve even more if all this does not lead us to a state of greater awareness and less selfishness. 

The light that comforts and gives me hope is the Buddhist reminder that “true joy comes from the depths of sorrow.” With a tranquil mind and a confident heart, let us recite the name of the light. Namandabu.

---

The Shin Buddhist Temple is offering a guided meditation led by Monk Sato. To listen to the meditation, click here.