War is a consequence of human behavior where vilence upon each other is not likely to end. Justification of violence committed as a protective and defensive measure has long been recognized in Buddhist thought, even to the extent of recogning skillful warriors.

This justification becomes blurred however through confused thinking propelled into political rhetoric of good versus evil; right and wrong. I prefer to balance the equation between confused ignorance and wisdom. Wisdom has no definitive boundaries. The LA Times conflated HH Dalai Lama’s wise words with the play of good and evil. That is not a surprise.

A good clarification in your HuffPost article Lew.

I am asked, quite reasonably, to be tolerant of other religious belief systems. If others cannot be tolerant of Buddhism that is not a reason for me to back away from presenting my own beliefs when appropriate.

Thanks for the timely posting. Two days ago, my right eye started to have these irritating floaters. They affected my visual view. In a state of panic, I rushed to see a eye specialist. As I was waiting to see her, it dawned unto me the truth that all things are subjected to changes, that includes my eye visual acuity. Though I’m still upset and irritated till this present moment, I draw strength from Buddha’s words of encouragement,”When he came, the Lord said to Ananda, ‘Enough Ananda, do not cry. For have I not taught that it is the nature of all things beloved that we must suffer separation from them and be severed from them? For that which is born, come to be and compounded is also subjected to dissolution. How could it be otherwise?’”-Digha Nikaya,vol 2,pg 144. Tony

Thanks for this much-needed perspective. I sent an excerpt of your post to our extended sangha, together with a link to your site. One recipient, who is herself a novice Zen priest, responded with a single word: “Amen!”