What holds a life together isn’t always one big truth—but many small ones, lived with care.

In this episode of Teaching Peace, we explore Chapter 21 of the Dhammapada—a collection of varied yet deeply connected teachings from the Buddha. From reflections on solitude to practices of nonviolence, these verses offer practical wisdom for navigating a complex and often disconnected world.

Jason Storbakken reflects on:

• The distinction between solitude and loneliness, with insight from Maggie Nelson and Rupi Kaur

• The U.S. Surgeon General’s call to confront the epidemic of loneliness through connection, presence, and care

• The foundational Three Gems of Buddhism—Buddha (teacher), Dharma (teaching), and Sangha (community)—and three embodied practices: the body, harmlessness, and meditation

• The path of harmlessness, nonviolence (ahimsa), and antiviolence as a spiritual and societal ethic

As Buddha teaches:
“Even alone in the wilds of the forest, peace is theirs.” (v. 305)

This chapter reminds us that even in solitude, we are never truly alone—and that the path to liberation is built on small, intentional acts of compassion.

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