The theory of interdependence allows us to develop a wider perspective. With wider mind, there is less attachment to destructive emotions like anger, therefore more forgiveness. In today's world, every nation is heavily interdependent, interconnected. Under these circumstances, destroying your enemy--your neighbor--means destroying yourself in the long run. You need your neighbor. More prosperity in your neighbor, you'll get the benefit.
Now, we're not talking about the complete removal of feelings like anger, attachment, or pride. Just reduction. Interdependence is important because it is not a mere concept; it can actually help reduce the suffering caused by these destructive emotions.
We can say the theory of interdependence is an understanding of reality. We understand that our future depends on global well-being. Having this viewpoint reduces narrow-mindedness. With narrow mind, one is more likely to develop attachment, hatred. I think this is the best thing about the theory of interdependence--it is an explanation of the law of nature. It affects profoundly, for example, the environment.
--from The Wisdom of Forgiveness: Intimate Conversations and Journeys by His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Victor Chan
These concepts spin within my head. From experiencing India, seeing a different focus of a non American nation, I see the American fabric sadly with leveled disdain. Most people don't comprehend that Eastern thought and theory is highly advanced, intellectually and practically. Westerners have ego, and arrogance and rarely want to see anything that conflicts with limited vi ewes, thus non acceptance. It is a deadly circle that many Americans chose to embrace, I am saddened and embarrassed at times being American, Many Americans need to travel out of the American bubble and experience how the rest of the world views them, many don't even care. I am saddened by these people that I am judged by also calling myself an American. I always add my Canadian heritage, It always deflects the contempt, Watching the State Dinner with Bush embarrassing himself again, with the Queen staring at him, feeling sadness or contempt, with grace. Always lacking with Bush, thus how our country presents America. Bush never fails to disappoint in any circumstance. England befriends us, for political capital, but they are revolted by us. I wish we could have many aspects of The British Ruling system. We are an theoretical society, with out any of the benefits of a fascist state.. I live for 2009 January,
Take a moment and jot a note?
L
Joe
