Dr. Seth Zuihō Segall: Pluralism and the Conflict of Visions: Navigating Diversity in Democracy

In this thought-provoking episode, we delve Buddhist practice, exploring the profound connections between mettā practice and the concept of merit. We ponder whether these two aspects are separate or intertwined, and how they can complement each other in our journey towards inner peace and compassion.

We begin with a contemplation of mettā, alternatively known as loving-kindness or goodwill, and its role in directing well-wishes and positive intentions towards others. We discuss how genuine mettā goes beyond mere words and is fundamentally about wishing genuine happiness and well-being for everyone- even those we find challenging.

Transitioning smoothly into the concept of merit, we consider how it is intrinsically linked to our actions and intentions. Merit, as we discuss, is a positive force accruing from our good deeds, but it’s not just about the deeds themselves, it's about the intentions behind them. It is the actions we take with a mind free of ill will that truly generate merit.

In the final segment, we explore how mettā and merit work hand-in-hand. We discuss how cultivating mettā can create an environment conducive for generating merit, and how, in turn, this merit can be dedicated to all beings, working towards a world free from suffering.

In a recent episode of the podcast, Reevaluating the Idea of Selfishness in Buddhism, we discussed the need to help ourselves. This concept surfaces again as Renee reminds us of the importance of the expression, “If you want to change the world, start by changing yourself.”

And be sure to access this eBook from Stephen on the art of letting go - https://schettini.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/ArtOfLettingGo.pdf

Often, we perceive Buddhists as solitary figures, lost in the realms of meditation and self-reflection. But is this the whole picture? Is Buddhism just about individual enlightenment, or does it also advocate service to others?

The story of Buddhism begins with the Buddha, who walked a path of solitude, wisdom, and enlightenment. Yet, he initially hesitated to share his profound understanding of life and existence, fearing that it might be too complex for others to grasp. Nonetheless, he was persuaded that at least some would comprehend and benefit from his teachings. His decision to share his enlightenment sprouted from a profound sense of compassion and a desire to alleviate suffering.

Thus began the cycle of passing on wisdom and compassion, with disciples becoming teachers, and teachings resonating through the ages. This chain of enlightenment continues to this very day. Could it be then, that the essence of Buddhism lies not only in the pursuit of personal enlightenment but also in compassionately helping others?

Season 4 of the Death Dhamma podcast kicks off on Monday, February 5, 2024. It's time to take a look at the people in this world who help to alleviate the suffering of other beings. Maybe they help people, maybe they help animals, we want to know them. To learn how they do it, and how they spark their compassion. We also want to explore teachings, practices, and stories around freeing others from suffering. Why? Because each of us, in our way can help. We too, can bring relief to ourselves and others.

One day, a member of the group I meditated with said to me, “You write and talk about when a friend or family member dies, but what about when we lose our pets?” She had recently lost a cat who had been by her side for nineteen years. This loss was deep and painful. I carried her question with me and contemplated how best to write about grieving our animal friends. Around the same time, another friend told me they thought it would be interesting if my next book was about the spiritual nature of our pets. This, too, was a compelling idea.

I began to realize that I did not have anything new to add to the topic of grieving our pets. If I wrote something, I would most likely be recycling my thoughts around how Buddhism can help us with death and grief.

For me, the teachings that helped with the death of family and friends were also helpful when it came time to say goodbye to pets because at some point, many of us have stopped looking at our pets as animals, and we have elevated them to a place where we might even hold them in higher regard than the people around us. 

From theses thoughts emerged my new book, Enlightenment Unleashed: How Your Pet Can Lead You to Spiritual Transformation. Today, I share with you some thoughts on our pets, and attachment and suffering.

In this heartwarming episode, we delve into an often overlooked aspect of legacy planning: emotional life insurance. We acknowledge the importance of financial life insurance and how it protects our loved ones in our absence. But our conversation takes a unique turn as we ponder on the importance of leaving an emotional cushion for our dear ones.

Dr. Kimberly Harms, shares her compelling views on how our culture tends to shy away from such dialogues, and the impact of continuous conversations can have on providing emotional stability. Margaret shares her forward-thinking parents approach and how they prepared her for their departure, providing a safety net she didn't even realize she needed.

Our conversation then moves to practical ways to offer emotional support to our loved ones. The last part of our Kimberly’s book provides a comprehensive ‘death preppers workbook.' Listen in as she discusses her personal endeavors from the workbook, such as writing posthumous letters to her children and grandchildren, detailing her love and gratitude for them.

The episode ends on a hopeful note, emphasizing the importance of reflecting on the happy times with our loved ones, despite the inevitable pain of loss. Join us in this emotionally charged episode, as we explore how we can provide our loved ones with the emotional support they'll need after we pass.

And be sure to check out,  Are You Ready? How to Build a Legacy to Die For 

Seth provides a detailed explanation of flourishing-based ethics, stating that virtues like honesty, courage, fairness, and the ability to control emotions are crucial to leading a better life. He also highlights the importance of being emotionally satisfied, having meaningful relationships, appreciating aesthetics, and being fully present in life to achieve a state of flourishing. Seth believes that classical virtues and wisdom, as emphasized by Aristotle, Buddha, and Confucius, are crucial to leading such a life. 

 Seth calls for an ethical reset, asserting that engaging in virtues not only helps us live better lives but also contributes to a better society. This episode makes for a thought-provoking listen on the intertwining of ethics, democracy, and human flourishing.