I have been called contrary more than once in my life, many times in fact, with good reason. I am contrary. Whichever way popular opinion or belief seems to be moving, I usually go in the opposite direction. I’m not sure why that is, but it usually seems to me to be the right way to go. I was raised in a family with Christian beliefs, but I have not held them myself. I have leaned for many years now toward Buddhism. Contrary, I know. I don’t call myself a Buddhist for a few reasons, such as, I don’t follow everything that actual Buddhist’s do. I don’t ascribe to the belief in karma and reincarnation. It takes a certain amount of faith to believe in that, that I just don’t possess. That being said, I lean very strongly toward just about every other Buddhist point of view.

Unfortunately, today in the U.S. we find ourselves in an environment of division and hate. Us vs them, as it were. Many disagree about the direction the country is taking and their feelings are very strong. Most people I talk to either love it or hate it and are ready and willing to defend their side, sometimes with violence. Families are being torn apart because of political differences, people are losing friends and making enemies. One wonders what can be done to save us from ourselves.

So, as I usually do, I’m doing the opposite. I’ve quit talking politics with everyone, and I’m relying on my Buddhism knowledge for support. When others show anger and hate, I’m showing kindness and understanding. I am determined to not let this get me down. It doesn’t mean I’m not concerned about our country and where we are headed, it just means that I’m not going to be dragged down into the mire of us vs them, into the anger and hate that I see every day in the popular press. We are being divided and pushed into our corners where we feel more trapped every day. Something is going to give one of these days, and people are going to be hurt, physically and emotionally. I really don’t want to see that happen, but it sure seems to be where we are going. So I’m remaining positive. I’m thinking good thoughts. I’m sending out good intentions in all directions.

I’ve been paying close attention to the Walk For Peace. In case you are unaware of what this is, it is a group of Buddhist monks that are walking from Fort Worth Texas to Washington D.C. to promote peace. They have been having a remarkable effect in every city and town they pass through. Crowds of people are coming out to see them and wish them well. People of all kinds are coming together over this group of simple monks. They aren’t promoting Buddhism, or any other ideology. and they aren’t telling people what to believe or what to do. They are simple walking with a banner that says, Walk For Peace. At some of the stops they have made the head monk gives a short talk that basically says, they are walking for peace. That’s it. And it seems to be working. The crowds are peaceful, and people are coming together, over a group of simple monks. I think it’s beautiful.

So I will continue to say a peace mantra every day, I will continue to send out good intentions in all directions, and I will continue to refuse to hate. I will be contrary. I will not be dragged down by those that wish to do so. I hope you will join me.