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May 8, 2025 How Should Buddhism Inform Action?   In this politically turbulent time that to many seems unprecedented, equanimity feels like a challenge—but one Buddhist wisdom implores us to cultivate. Instead of obsessing over the news or turning away and shutting down, we can endeavor to face the facts without letting them consume us. Perspective is helpful. Drawing lessons from the past and recognizing similarities between historical moments and this one may mollify hysteria and help us find a wiser response—one where we can thoughtfully consider how Buddhist practice and principles might inform action, and what that action might look like: outward-facing, inward-facing, quiet, or loud.  Looking back at a special section on politics and right action in a Tricycle issue from 2004, some of the articles sound like they could have been written today. This week’s Three Teachings features three articles from that special section, “Politics: The Practice of Citizenship,” that are as timely today as they were then.  (For more on the question of grappling with a wise response to the political climate, listen to a recent podcast with meditation teacher Sharon Salzberg; Tricycle’s editor-in-chief, James Shaheen; and writer Daisy Hernández: How to Stay Engaged Without Burning Out.)  Forward today's teachings to a friend » Present Moment, Urgent Moment By Donald Rothberg Meditation teacher, writer, and socially engaged Buddhist Donald Rothberg considers what, if anything, Buddhists should do to make a difference, and offers five basic guidelines for Buddhist social and political action that can orient our approaches to these questions. Read more » Seven Reasons Why It’s Better Not to Hate Them By Diana Winston Mindfulness teacher, author, and speaker Diana Winston cites her Buddhist values in an effort to stay open and resist bitterness in order to respond to injustice from a healthier place. Read more » Ten Practices to Change the World By Susan Moon Writer and lay teacher in the Soto Zen tradition Susan Moon offers a list of ways to get off the cushion and get involved. Read more »