When we look at the teachings of both the Buddha and the Christ, we find the admonishment to serve others – to do good for others altruistically. That message is exemplified in the parable about the Good Samaritan, to be certain.
This dharma principle is quite wonderful, you see, for when you do good for others unconditionally, and without attachment to the person or relationship, then not only does that person benefit, but the person doing so benefits as well. Now it’s essential that our motivation at the time that we are doing good is simply to relieve the suffering of another being. We don’t focus on what’s in it for us. But without fail, we benefit, because by focusing on the needs of others, our own happiness is cultivated and another part of us awakens.
This is why both Jesus the Nazarene and Sakyamuni Buddha pointed to the Way of loving-kindness, non-attachment of boundless generosity, and compassion for all beings. They knew that whatever we build ends up building us.
Namasté!
- dharmacharya gurudas śunyatananda
http://dharmadudeunplugged.com
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