Day 12 of 1461

Teaching

“One who, while himself seeking happiness, oppresses with violence other beings who also desire happiness, will not find happiness hereafter.”

— Dhammapada, Verse 131 (Buddhist Text)

Significance

This verse from the Dhammapada reminds us that true happiness and peace cannot come from causing harm to others. In Buddhist thought, intention and action carry great moral weight. When those in power make choices that knowingly hurt others—especially the vulnerable—they are creating suffering, not just in the world, but within themselves.

Today, when governments remove regulations that protect workers, the environment, or public health, those decisions often benefit the wealthy and powerful at the expense of everyday people. While these actions may be framed as “economic freedom,” they can result in real harm—unsafe housing, polluted communities, or unaffordable healthcare. Buddhist teachings encourage us to examine the consequences of our actions and to act with compassion for all beings, not just for personal or financial gain. A society built on compassion seeks fairness, not exploitation.

Affirmation

May my actions bring balance and care. I will not close my eyes to the suffering of others. I choose compassion over greed, and fairness over profit.