Compassion

To those who think school prayer and the Ten Commandments are the answers to society’s ills, I have something to say. I am a 15-year-old girl, and I am Buddhist. But more importantly, I am a devout pacifist. I am also vegan (strict vegetarian) and I would, literally, never hurt a fly. I have love, respect and compassion for all people, regardless of race, religion, appearance or any other outward characteristic. I believe all people have the same nature of kindness in their hearts. They are all equal in my eyes. I have found this without the teachings of Christianity.

Proposing the Bible as the only means to peace is not only ignorant, but it is disrespectful and insulting to myself and other non-Christians who hold high respect for all life. The solution is not to be found in one religion or set of beliefs. Above anything else, compassion and respect need to be taught to children (and to many adults, for that matter). The Dalai Lama, probably the most famous Buddhist, once said, “Compassion is my religion.” A lesson we could all use.

HEATHER ZETIN

Orange