When the headlines feel heavy, it’s natural to wonder: What will it ever take for the world to know peace?
In this week’s episode of the Secular Buddhism Podcast (Episode 212), I explore this question through the lens of the Three Poisons in Buddhism: ignorance, greed, and hatred.
These poisons don’t just exist “out there” in the world; they live in each of us. The anger we feel in traffic, the resentment we hold in relationships, or the grasping we cling to when life doesn’t go our way… these are the very same seeds that, when watered and nurtured, can grow into something destructive.
But there is hope: for each poison, there’s also an antidote. Wisdom counters ignorance. Gratitude transforms greed. Loving-kindness dissolves hatred.
This episode is both a reflection on the violence and suffering we see around us and a call to action: to end the war within ourselves. Because peace doesn’t begin with governments or institutions, it begins in our own hearts, rippling outward into homes, communities, and eventually, the world.
In this episode, we’ll explore:
- Why peace is not a top-down phenomenon but a grassroots movement starting with each of us.
- How the Three Poisons show up in our everyday lives.
- The antidotes we can practice: wisdom, gratitude, and loving-kindness.
- Two simple practices you can begin today to transform your inner landscape and ripple peace outward.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the state of the world and wondered what difference you can possibly make, this episode is for you.
Thank you for being part of this journey toward greater awareness and compassion. May we each contribute to peace, one moment, one choice, and one heart at a time.
With gratitude,
Noah
Related posts
Written by
