How do we connect our personal healing and awakening… to the broader world that’s hurting? This is often called Engaged Buddhism — but honestly, it’s relevant to anyone who wants to live with wisdom, compassion, and integrity, especially in times like these.

Inner peace can and should lead to outer action. The Buddha himself confronted systemic suffering in his day. What does that mean for us now, and why do our values — yes, even judgment — actually matter on the path?

In this week's episode, I explore:

• Why inner work isn’t separate from outer work
• Why compassion means addressing the causes of suffering, not just feeling bad about it
• How to take wise, compassionate action without burning out
• What to do when you’re outraged, overwhelmed, or just tired
• Why the Buddha’s life (including leaving his family) is more complex than the myth
• How the Buddha did challenge systemic injustice (yes, including caste and patriarchy)
• 5 practical ways to stay grounded and engaged in a hurting world — right now, right where you are

This is about practical tools, honest reflection, and standing up for what’s good — without burning out. If you’re someone who wants to grow spiritually and make a difference, I think you’ll find something useful here.

You’re welcome to join me live each week for these talks — for free — by signing up at https://rickhanson.com/wednesday-meditations-with-dr-rick-hanson/. We always start with a guided meditation to set the tone for the evening. If you’d like to experience the meditation that accompanied this talk, you can listen to it at: https://rickhanson.com/meditation-talk-engaged-buddhism-including-today/

And if you'd like to check out any of my online programs at https://rickhanson.com/online-courses/, you can receive 20% off by using coupon code PW20 during checkout.