By protecting oneself, one protects others; by protecting others, one protects oneself

Bhante Kusala

In the Sedaka Sutta, the Buddha offers a vivid metaphor: two acrobats balancing delicately atop a bamboo pole. To perform successfully, each must take care of themselves and support the other. From this image, the Buddha teaches that protecting oneself and protecting others are not separate paths—they go hand in hand. He encourages the monks to cultivate qualities that serve both self and others: patience (instead of impatience), care (rather than neglect), compassion (in place of cruelty), and loving-kindness (the antidote to anger).

During the COVID-19 pandemic, we practiced this very teaching—protecting ourselves and others through simple, mindful actions like wearing masks and keeping physical distance. These were acts of care, not only for personal safety, but for the well-being of our communities. In the same spirit, we can bring these protective qualities into our families and social circles—responding with patience, showing up with care, and holding others with compassion and kindness. This is how we walk the path together, safely and with wisdom.