Volume 80. October 8, 2026
As we head into the midterm elections of 2026, our choice is stark.
Do we vote for people who want to help themselves or help others?
In the last two years, corrupt politicians have without shame enriched themselves, their families and their friends. Millionaires have become billionaires, while the vast majority of Americans have struggled to pay for gas, food, rent and health insurance.
Does government exist for private service or public service?
In much the same way, one could ask is our practice of Buddhism directed toward helping ourselves or helping others?
Perhaps a story may illustrate.
Long ago a Buddhist priest named Ronshiki built a small hermitage. He led a spartan existence and constantly engaged in the study of the Lotus Sutra. By cultivating a small field, he was able to eke out enough food to sustain himself. He refused all visitors, fearing attachment to their alms-giving.
When he died, Ronshiki left the hermitage to his lone disciple Sanuki, who, shortly thereafter, had a dream.
Sanuki found himself in hell. Off in a corner, he saw a small dwelling. Peering in, he saw the gaunt figure of his master reciting the Lotus Sutra. Saddened and surprised, he drew near and said,
“Master, you performed many virtuous acts in your lifetime. You were extremely devout and universally praised. How is it possible that you are here in this terrible place of suffering?”
Ronshiki, half in joy, half in sorrow, replied, “It is true I performed many good deeds in my lifetime, but unfortunately I was utterly lacking in the bodhi-mind.”
Sunkui countered, “But you recited the Lotus Sutra in the bitter cold of winter and in the sweltering heat of summer. Surely that must show you possessed the bodhi-mind.”
“No, you’re wrong,” Ronshiki said. “It is true that I was diligent in my practice, but that was done merely for my sake. I did not engage in the greater practice that is directed to others. I deeply regret the meager effort I put forth in my former life. Because I strove only for my benefit, I must accept the consequences of my actions. I have no one to blame but myself.”
“Sunuki,” he urged. “Your life in the human world is not yet over. Return at once. Extend the great gift of the Dharma to all beings. Benefit them. So they can perfect the wisdom within.”
The bodhi-mind is the aspiration to deepen one’s self-awakening while at the same time working to help others reach liberation.
In Buddhism, self-development and altruism go hand in hand.
Before any guru initiates a disciple, that guru examines the candidate for his/her true motivation. He warns the person:
If you’re doing this for yourself, get out!
If you’re doing this to help other people, okay, you’re in.
When it comes to the midterm elections, Americans are lucky.
We get to decide who’s in and who’s out.
