111: The Great Divide

Monk Gyatso:
“The Great Divide” is a term usually used to describe the differences between people of different classes: the noble and the serf, the rich and the poor, the educated and the ignorant, etc.  Often these groups will let pride separate them from each other in their hearts.  One group attributes characteristics to the other in pretty unfair ways.   
We do have a tendency to do this in life: to put people into groups, to stereotype, and make assumptions about others without getting to really know them.  We have been warned of letting pride swell in our hearts so that we look down on others.

In this chapter we have the example of the two tribes that have prideful grudges against each other.  They assign all kinds of negative characteristics to the other group, seeing their worst, and only think of how good they are themselves.  And here we have a real example of how this can lead them to do evil themselves.

We need to look for the best in others.  We need to look on others with love and seek to understand others, rather than pass judgment, especially when we notice differences.  Once again, we are reminded that we are responsible for our own actions, and there is no justification for evil (or breaking rules or promises).   

Reminder: This is not a fully-realized lesson plan, but is rather a beginning point for discussion in your family or on this blog!