Dharmic Social-Political Action Meeting

Here is something that I just received in my inbox. Thought it would be interesting for people to know about. (I've included only the English version, without the Hebrew one)


A Call for Dharma in Action

An invitation to forge our intentions for social-political action inspired by the Dharma and other spiritual paths

It is a great privilege to be exposed to spiritual ways and let ourselves be touched deep inside - we gain the privilege of not being attached to fear, rage and hate; we gain the privilege of understanding that violence leads to more violence; we gain the privilege of realizing the power of an open heart….

This privilege brings with it a great duty – the duty to bring these insights to our wounded society, to use the tools of the Dharma, as well as other spiritual skills, to bring about change in this place.We have a great gift to bring to our society, submerged as it is in a bloody conflict that with time becomes even more extreme, more intractable. Even though we might experience moments of pain, confusion and despair, the spiritual way allows us to see an alternative, to see that this conflict is also subject to the forces of change.

Many of us refrain from acting in the public sphere, from doing political work. But isn’t it time for our voice to be heard? Isn’t it time for the Dharma to act to bring goodness and compassion to this land?The recent war we experienced once again awakens the need for social work inspired by compassion and insight.

We invite you to a gathering where we will crystallize our vision and our way of action as a spiritual-political group. Some of us who have been active in Middleway and other frameworks for several years have some ideas for such activity. We want to invite all those interested in participating in joint brainstorming and action to join us.

An initial meeting will take place on Wednesday, January 28, 2009 18:30 – 21:00 at the Sangha House, 21 Bertanura St., Tel Aviv.

Following this meeting we intend to hold a weekend gathering for study, inner work & planning.

Please let us know if you intend to come:

Aviv: avivsky@gmail.com
Shiri: shirileaf@yahoo.com.au

If you wish to take part in this process but can’t come to the meeting next week please let us know and we will keep you informed.