In this episode of Heart Wisdom, Jack Kornfield explores how conflict is natural for human beings and covers the Buddha’s seven-step process of reconciliation.
Conflict and Reconciliation
In these turbulent times of seemingly non-stop conflict, Jack reminds us that conflict is quite natural for human beings. He shares stories of his time with Thich Nhat Hanh and talks about how reconciliation is based on addressing the suffering of all concerned. Jack introduces the Buddha’s seven-step process of reconciliation, which starts with a face-to-face speaking of the truth.
“Conflict really starts in the heart with our attachments and our needs and our desires, and so forth. And this is a particularly divided time where there’s different beliefs and views about the pandemic or climate change or racial and social justice or how we go forward… We need to kind of pause for a moment and reflect with all conflicts that are here with us, that surround us, really. What is it that matters?” – Jack Kornfield
Covering Mud With Straw (17:48)
Jack covers the remaining steps from the Buddha’s process of reconciliation. After face-to-face speaking, there is deep listening, non-stubbornness, voluntary confession, the decision by consensus, accepting the verdict, and covering mud with straw.
“Covering mud with straw means that you sit and listen to the elders who are there, who will give some teachings, as the Buddha did.” – Jack Kornfield
Dr. Sabrina N’Diaye explores the power of listening on Mindrolling Ep. 358
A National Truth and Reconciliation Process (31:36)
Jack talks about how the process of reconciliation is hard, whether it’s within families or larger social groups. But we don’t just need to do this work with our families and with one another, we need to do it nationally. Jack ends by reminding us that consciousness and loving-kindness are our true nature, and to remember the capacity of our hearts in times of conflict.
“You carry within you the seeds of awakening, your own Buddha-nature. What seeds will you water?” – Jack Kornfield
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