Reflections on Four Transformative Events at Land of Medicine Buddha
Over the past few months, Dharma Voices for Animals had the joy and honor of offering a powerful series of events at Land of Medicine Buddha, each exploring the intersection of Buddhist practice and compassionate living. These gatherings brought together community, teachings, and heartfelt inquiry into how we can extend non-harming not only to other humans, but to all beings. As someone who helped organize and participate in these offerings, I felt both humbled and deeply inspired by what unfolded.
Event 1: The Environmental Impact of Animal Agriculture
In our first talk, I had the opportunity to speak on the environmental destruction caused by animal agriculture. Framed through the lens of Buddhist ethics and the concept of interdependence, we explored how animal farming contributes to deforestation, water pollution, biodiversity loss, mass extinctions and climate disruption. Many participants were surprised to learn that animal agriculture is one of the leading contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, more so than the entire transportation sector. We also discussed how shifting toward plant-based lifestyle is the most powerful change we can make for the planet. It was proof that the Dharma can support and inform our ecological choices.
Event 2: Modern Animal Agriculture and Buddhist Ethics
The second event dove deeper into the ethical implications of eating animals. I shared stories and images that brought us face to face with the suffering of cows, pigs, chickens, and fish in today’s industrial system. We reflected on the First Precept of not killing, and how this extends to our food choices. What touched me most was the depth of silence and presence in the room as we sat with these truths. Rather than turning away, many attendees expressed a sincere openness to seeing with new eyes. We ended with a reflection on the current massive scale of animal suffering in the world. I also offered hope by showing the many Vegan Buddhist teachers and how they walk the path of compassion, and how we might embody that same energy in our daily lives.
Event 3: Debunking Nutrition Myths and Thriving on a Plant-Based Diet with Dr. Allan Kornberg
Dr. Allan Kornberg, pediatrician and longtime board member of Dharma Voices for Animals, offered a deeply informative presentation on the health benefits of a whole-food plant-based diet. His talk covered everything from the Blue Zones and lifestyle medicine to nutrient myths and public health risks of animal-based foods. He also highlighted how plant-based diets can prevent and even reverse chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and some cancers. I appreciated how Allan spoke from both personal and professional experience, weaving together science, compassion, and humor. His down-to-earth approach left people feeling empowered and supported in making healthier food choices.
Event 4: The Practice of Non-Harming with Bob Stahl
Our final gathering was a weekend retreat led by Bob Stahl, a longtime teacher in the mindfulness tradition. The theme was non-harming, and Bob gently guided us through practices of remembering, of opening our hearts to all beings, and of seeing clearly the conditioning that leads us to exclude others from our circle of care. While veganism wasn’t the central topic, Bob did share his own path to veganism over 30 years ago, grounded in the aspiration to cause the least harm possible. His reflections on Auschwitz, slaughterhouses, and the deep connections between human and animal suffering were incredibly moving. What stayed with me most was his prayer: "May I never become settled in the face of so much suffering."
A Shared Aspiration
Each of these events stood on its own, yet together they created a powerful arc of awakening. From ecological awareness to ethical reflection, nutritional empowerment to deep spiritual inquiry, the invitation was clear: how can we, as Buddhists, live in greater alignment with the clear and unambiguous teachings of the Buddha of compassion for all beings?
I came away from these events with a full heart, renewed hope, and a sense that the Dharma is alive in this work. I feel deep gratitude to the Land of Medicine Buddha for hosting us, to each of the speakers, and to everyone who showed up with open minds and hearts. May we continue walking this path of compassion together.