Mindfulness can be an active force for change in the world | Letters
Ronald Purser's article on mindfulness (Tune out, 14 June) weaves a sensational point by alleging that this ancient practice is impotent beyond an individual's relaxation because there is no call to higher ethics. While he acknowledges one half of the Buddha's teaching of meditation - to alleviate suffering - he overlooks the second half, meditation as a path to enlightenment. That comes naturally with a dedicated practice, and that's where ethics come in. If the author's point is about why meditation is not marketed as being about ethics and making this world a finer place, the chances are that would be rejected by the mainstream. People must find their own ways to the truth and make their own choices.
The website of the New Kadampa Tradition-International Kadampa Buddhist Union, kadampa.org, puts it eloquently: "If we integrate Buddha's teachings into our daily life we will be able to solve all our inner problems and attain a truly peaceful mind. Without inner peace, outer peace is impossible. If we first establish peace within our minds by training in spiritual paths, outer peace will come naturally; but if we do not, world peace will never be achieved, no matter how many people campaign for it."
Liza Horan
Edinburgh