Meditation for Peace: Ending War from Within
Episode Overview
Explore the roots of violence in our minds and the world. Learn Tibetan Buddhist approaches to peace. Reflect on the impact of US-Iran conflict. Discover the power of meditation in promoting peace. Support initiatives for happier minds and a better world.
Anger doesn't feel good, right? Every moment that we choose patience over rage, listening over shouting, it's a small act that promotes peace.
In this special episode of 'How to Train a Happy Mind,' Scott Snibbe guides listeners through a meditation on cultivating peace amidst global conflict. The meditation was recorded shortly after the United States initiated a new bombing campaign in Iran, prompting Scott to reflect deeply on the roots of violence and potential paths toward peace.
Drawing from Tibetan Buddhist teachings, Scott highlights the importance of understanding the sources of violence within both our minds and the broader world, emphasizing the role of compassion, patience, and active listening as tools for transformation. Scott discusses the excitement that some may feel when witnessing military power and destruction, but contrasts this with the wisdom of figures like the Dalai Lama, who promote peace through understanding and negotiation rather than force.
He challenges listeners to consider the profound impact of simple, compassionate actions—smiling, asking kind questions, and truly listening—as means to foster peace. The podcast advocates for the integration of peaceful thoughts and intentions into daily meditation practices, encouraging listeners to contemplate phrases like 'May the world be at peace' and 'May I resolve all conflicts in my own life.' Scott underscores the potential ripple effects of these thoughts, suggesting that even small shifts towards peace in our personal lives can contribute to broader global change.
Listeners are invited to support the mission of 'How to Train a Happy Mind' by contributing to their initiatives, which aim to build happier minds and more fulfilling relationships. The podcast accepts donations in various forms, including cryptocurrencies, ensuring that these educational materials remain free and accessible. As Scott Snibbe prepares to lead an in-person retreat at Vajrapani Institute, he offers a rare opportunity for participants to deepen their understanding of transformative practices, explore antidotes to anxiety and fear, and cultivate loving relationships within the serene backdrop of California's redwood forests.
Whether new to meditation or seasoned practitioners, attendees can expect to gain practical tools and lasting insights applicable to anyone interested in mindfulness and peace. The episode concludes with a call to action: may even our smallest actions be a cause for peace. As listeners await the postponed meditation on joy by Tenzin Chogkyi, Scott Snibbe hopes that this episode inspires contemplation and positive change.