Compassion in action.

Liberation for Buddhism is both internal and external. Internally, we seek to free ourselves from the poisons of greed, hatred and ignorance. Externally, we try to alleviate suffering wherever it is found and to establish stable and supportive social conditions within which we and all others may live our lives to their full potential. This is one way of understanding Engaged Buddhism, a term coined by Thich Nhat Hanh.

Compassion takes actives forms in our community. Some work and volunteer in the caring professions: hospitals, prisons, schools, non-profits, social work, chaplaincy and so on. Many give their free time, volunteering at hospices or on telephone helplines, befriending marginalized populations, or campaigning for various causes.

In India we have a wide range of social projects (not necessarily tied to Buddhism) working with children and families from some of the poorest communities in the world. Karuna USA raises funds for many of these. The Nagaloka Centre is a great example of an independently funded project where Buddhist approaches to social work and education directly benefit those attending.

Many within the Triratna Community are working together, and with others, towards racial and economic justice, ending climate devastation, and bringing about a more peaceful loving world, in harmony with the Earth. Some identify as activists, although members of the Order hold a wide range of political views.