On the heels of the previous slogan, here is another to help us clarify the way: correct all wrongs with one intention. And the intention, again, is to live in a way that benefits others. But how does this correct all wrongs?
Well, we could argue that the majority of “wrongs” happen when we don’t actively live to benefit others. Imagine what society would look like, how personal relationships might change, if we truly lived this way. So many of these lojong slogans remind us that when we work for the good of all, compassion and justice flourish. At least, they have more of a fighting chance! So on the surface level, we can simply see this slogan as a way to restate our commitment to that. We can correct all wrongs with compassionate intention.
More than that, though, this calls us to reorient our focus when we’re experiencing “wrongs” of our own. Just like the previous slogan encourages us not to slide into selfishness, this one invites us to see a broader picture in our pain. Jamgon Kungtrul says, “In the whole universe, there are many sentient beings who have problems like mine; my compassion goes out to all of them.”
In other words, it’s not just you. You’re not the only one suffering around here. Your pain is unique, and it’s also universal. When we remember this, we can perhaps spend less time in “woe is me” zone. I don’t know if that corrects everything, but it sure is a good place to start.
And, in mind training practice, we always come back to the only place where we can start: with ourselves. With the little world that goes on inside our own heads, and whether that’s helpful to us and others…or not.
As always, the best and most productive way to do this is through gentleness. Beating ourselves up about either the painful situation itself or our reaction to it doesn’t do much good. Gentleness and compassion offer healing balm. They may not correct all wrongs, but there’s no better place to turn.
How can you find some compassion in your pain this week? Where can you return to living gently with yourself and others?
