Empathy may be defined as being able to see life from different points of view. Attachment to views creates conflict because it blinds us to other points of view. The Buddha was a true diplomat and never took sides in disputes. He understood the underlying structures that govern life. Practising the Noble Eightfold Path we too begin to recognise these same governing principles. As a result, our ability to empathise with others grows. We begin see how everyone and everything, even predators such as lions and tigers, are simply acting according to their nature. 

Paul Harris is the Spiritual Head and principal meditation teacher at the House of Inner Tranquillity.                 

This talk was given in December 2015