A bleak picture of how things are on our planet - and a message of empowerment

I have begun my fourth audiobook from among the Dalai Lama’s writings. The title is ‘How to expand love: Widening the Circle of Loving Relationships.’  The voice of His Holiness’ translator from 1979 to 1989, Professor P. Jeffrey Hopkins, has become a frequent companion.

The following excerpt from Professor Hopkins’ introduction provides a succinct, bleak  picture of humanity-created trends on our planet. He describes them as ‘dark forces:’   

• increasing tendencies toward greed, exploitation and lust.  
• rampant consumerism;  
• incessant manipulation of opinions that reinforce coarse urges; 
• the ubiquitous presence of contentless entertainment;   
• increasing divides between rich and poor;  
• sound-byte explanations for complexities of human existence;  
• overeating to the point of pain and obesity ;  
• movements to roll back worker rights to 19th century levels; 
• a ridiculous emphasis on economic profit as if this could be the only goal of breathing. 
  

Sadly, these trends dominate  many facets American culture.  It is the ubiquitous influence of our culture that is catalyzing similar trends globally.

But the Dalai Lama’s message is one of hope and empowerment, not despair.  The path to altering these trends can - indeed must - begin with transformation of ourselves. Seeking enlightenment, for the welfare of all, must become part of a daily practice. The task requires time, effort, patience and discipline. But it is possible.