This bonus episode showcases an interview between Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh and journalist Jo Confino from before Christmas 2011, during the winter retreat in Plum Village. It begins with a short introduction by Jo and Zen Buddhist monk Brother Phap Huu.
This is a conversation about our relationship with Mother Earth, the need to move beyond the idea of ‘environment’, and falling back in love with our life-giving planet.
Thich Nhat Hanh talks about the ‘Buddha nature’; the Earth as bodhisattva; meditation as active awakening, and practical ways to bring about a collective awakening; the need for a cosmic religion not based on dharma or belief; producing our own right view; dogmatism as a cause for separation and war; the most necessary teachings for our times; mindful and compassionate business; transforming suffering; collective enlightenment and awakening; and connecting to the Earth through mindfulness. Thay also further develops on his interest in science, and the benefits of a retreat for yogi and scientists.
The interview also includes important advice to help activists maintain their motivation and peace amid chaos, and how to suffer less to help more.
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🔔 The Way Out Is In: The Zen Art of Living is a podcast series mirroring Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh’s deep teachings of Buddhist philosophy: a simple yet profound methodology for dealing with our suffering, and for creating more happiness and joy in our lives.
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🎙️ The podcast is co-produced by the Plum Village App and Global Optimism with support from the Thich Nhat Hanh Foundation.
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Resources
Plum Village Community
Love Letter to the Earth
Antoine Lavoisier
Paul Tillich
Bodhisattva
Shakyamuni Buddha
Journalist Jo Confino Interviews Thich Nhat Hanh: Falling Back in Love with Mother Earth
‘Beyond Environment: Falling Back in Love with Mother Earth’
Dharma Talks: ‘The Ground of Right View’