Inundated as we are with carefully crafted information since the killing of Osama Bin Laden, what has emerged at the very least is a clear picture of everyone trying to give their meaning to the story. As a journalist, I know something about how such events take on a life of their own, fueled by sources and reporters and editors.
Amid it all this week, I find most worthy of note the Dalai Lama’s reminder not to confuse the action and the actor. In the case of Bin Laden, he noted, his action was of course destructive and the September 11 events killed thousands of people. So his action must be brought to justice, the Dalai Lama said. But with the actor we must have compassion and a sense of concern, he added. He said therefore that the counter measure, the response, no matter what form it takes, has to be compassionate action.
What that action looks like, however, remains an open question. « Finding » the answer begins with truly not knowing the answer and bearing witness to the whole situation.
It’s certainly something essential to consider deeply, in this case and throughout our lives.
Action and actor, justice and compassion
About the Author: zenscribe
Enseignante Zen et poète, Sensei Amy “Tu es cela” Hollowell est née et a grandi à Minneapolis, aux Etats-Unis. Arrivée en France en 1981 pour étudier la littérature et l’histoire, elle y est restée, s’installant à Paris, où elle élève ses deux enfants et gagne sa vie en tant que journaliste.
The Zen teacher and poet Amy “Tu es cela” Hollowell Sensei was born and raised in Minneapolis, but came to France in 1981 to study literature and history and has lived in Paris ever since, raising her two children and making a living as a journalist.
What a beautiful reminder amidst all the pain past, present and future not yet fully grieved.
Just like in a koan this thought places me in controversy between thought and heart. While my heart easily feels and understands with empathy, my mind questions whether it is possible to help someone in such situation, whatever the method is used.
I’ll continue to consider this thought deeply.