We can use metaphors to help envision interconnectedness. . . . thinking of reality as a net.  We can also see it as a fabric that has been woven through causal relationships.  Like threads that run through a piece of fabric, the actions of one person serve as causes whose effects others must experience.  In other words, the consequences of our actions can harm or benefit others.  Responsibility is thus part of the fabric of reality.  It is not an optional accessory,  (Interconnectedness.  Embracing Life in our Global Society, The Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje.  Translated by Damchö Diana Finnegan)

Dear Readers, there are so many negative issues being discussed in the media nowadays.  Foremost, from a global perspective, is the importance given to President Trump’s latest tweets, the seemingly never-ending controversial issues coming out of the Middle East, and the unstable fluidity of the  relationships amongst the leaders of North Korea, Russia, China and the United States.  At home in the UK, there is also an almost  breathless schadenfreude around the woes concerning the Brexit negotiations.  But let’s not go there.

To paraphrase a comment by Ringu Tulku Rinpoche, “I used to read the news every morning and discovered that by not reading the news it made no difference.”

There are many positive issues discussed on the internet.  As an alternative to “bad news” often discussed in the media, I would like to recommend The GoodNewsNetwork.  

Take care over the festive season, and…

Wishing all the best for 2018

Albert Harris:  editor

FEATURES
CHOJE AKONG TULKU RINPOCHE:  Vin Harris
THE BENEFITS OF SAVING LIVES:  Chatral Rinpoche
CHILLI HOT KETCHUP:  Monica Wilde

POETRY
REMEMBER:  Christina Rossetti
HAIKU:  Chögyam Trungpa

FILM
THE PRACTICE OF COMPASSION:  Ringu Tulku Rinpoche

PERSONAL STORIES
THE EMPTINESS OF CURTAINS:  Annie Dibble
THROUGH THE GATEWAY OF THE SENSES:  Francesca Fremantle
WHEN NO PLACE FEELS LIKE HOME:  Cristina Luhmann
HARRIET TUBMAN:  Jaiya John

FICTIONAL STORIES
AN INDIAN PIECE:  Yeshe

REVIEWS
THE MAIN OF LIGHT:  Pat Little

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