Give peace a chance.I really enjoyed Heidi Schlumpf's interview with Thich Nhat Hanh ("What would Buddha do?" December). In this multi-tasked, fast-paced world, Hanh's peaceful mindfulness is good to remember. His deeds and words emanate a wisdom that seems too simple to be the way towards peace. I'm reminded of G. K. Chesterton's response to critics of Christianity: "It's not that Christianity has been tried and found wanting, it's that it has never been tried." The same, unfortunately, can be said of Hanh's mindful way. Hanh, while engaged with the world, directs me to begin by putting to rest the violence and disquiet that reigns in my own heart. Kevin Hood El Paso El Paso (ĕl pă`sō), city (1990 pop. 515,342), seat of El Paso co., extreme W Tex., on the Rio Grande opposite Juárez, Mex.; inc. 1873. , Texas A word of thanks for Schlumpf's interview with Thich Nhat Hanh. In a country whose leaders are marinated in realpolitik realpolitik Politics based on practical objectives rather than on ideals. The word does not mean “real” in the English sense but rather connotes “things”—hence a politics of adaptation to things as they are. , unilateralism u·ni·lat·er·al·ism n. A tendency of nations to conduct their foreign affairs individualistically, characterized by minimal consultation and involvement with other nations, even their allies. , and triumphalism tri·umph·al·ism n. The attitude or belief that a particular doctrine, especially a religion or political theory, is superior to all others. tri·umph , the message of this Buddhist monk is startling star·tle v. star·tled, star·tling, star·tles v.tr. 1. To cause to make a quick involuntary movement or start. 2. To alarm, frighten, or surprise suddenly. See Synonyms at frighten. . I'm not sure that his world of inner peace and calm will be easily understood or accepted by many in this competitive society, but it is important that we be exposed to this ancient view of getting along with our neighbors. In that respect it is sublimely Christian and full of hope. E.P. Butler Erdenheim, Penn. |
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