Day 104 of 1461

🪷 Teaching

The Dhammapada, Verse 5:
“Hatred does not cease by hatred, but only by love; this is the eternal law.”

🌍 Significance

In times of uncertainty, many seek stronger protections for their families and communities. We all want to feel safe. But safety rooted in fear and unchecked power is not true safety—it is control.

A new executive order, presented as a way to secure our cities, allows law enforcement expanded authority to use aggressive tactics, military-grade weapons, and broad immunity from accountability. These measures may be intended to deter crime, but they also risk empowering those who abuse power and intimidating everyday citizens, especially those in already vulnerable communities.

Buddhism teaches us to examine not just the surface of a policy, but its effect on suffering. If a law deepens fear, silences voices, or separates us from our shared humanity, then we must ask: is this peace, or is this power without wisdom?

We can—and must—seek a society that values both safety and compassion, both security and justice. True strength lies not in domination, but in protecting the dignity and freedom of all people.

🌱 Affirmation

I will not answer fear with fear.
I walk the path of compassion and wisdom.
Where others spread control, I will cultivate peace.
Where harm is done, I will speak with love and courage.