I’ve mentioned before that I’ve been spending this summer working for Ashoka, (which, by the way, is a fantastic organization — be sure to check out what they do). On part of my route, I take the Metro, which could use some upgrading. While I’m only on the Metro for a few stops, it gives me time to read. Usually, I read The Economist. However, since I’ve moved recently and my mail hasn’t caught up with me yet, I’ve gone back to reading books.
I mentioned last month that I was reading a book by the Dalai Lama. Yesterday, I found a passage that I thought would be good to share:
When it comes to avoiding harmful actions of body and speech, in addition this fundamental rule [the Golden Rule], I personally find a list of six principles from a text by the second-century Indian thinker Nagarjuna to be helpful. In this text, Nagarjuna is offering advice to an Indian monarch of the time. The six principles are as follows:
- Avoid excessive use of intoxicants.
- Uphold principles of right livelihood.
- Ensure that one’s body, speech, and mind are nonviolent.
- Treat others with respect.
- Honor those worthy of esteem, such as parents, teachers, and those who are kind.
- Be kind to others.
Jeremiah Stanghini 