Hello, I am happy I found this server. As a Buddhist, it has been hard to find people who follow the same political Ideology as me and uphold the Dharma. I hope to learn from all of you since I've been a Socialist for a year and a Buddhist for even less. Nice to meet you all and may you all find enlightenment and inner peace.

Hey there,

I'm new to buddhism (second generation indian-american, raised in a secular household) and I'm drawn to the work of Ambedkar and the Navayana school of thought. I'm wondering how you all go about finding places of worship? Do you go to a temple? Do you practice at home? Most of the temples in my area seem pretty conservative, and I'm definitely looking for a religious community in line with my political values. Any advice/help would be greatly appreciated.

The video in question is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9VN9206cXI0

Knowledge clearly demands that we act vigorously to prevent a nazi uprising.

I find rhetoric like in the video really challenges my commitment to, and understanding of, ahimsa -- not least of all because I find his directness refreshing.

Hearing it, I find myself thinking, "well, there is that one sutta where the Buddha tells the king that kingdoms need armed forces", and "I wonder if killing nazis to prevent another holocaust is justified", and "what did the Buddha say about war" ....etc, etc. I'm sure many can relate.

But I find such thoughts to be unskillful. Upon deeper reflection, I find I don't agree with Dan's "solution". Instead, I remind myself that the fire can't burn without fuel, and the war machine can't run without our participation.

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I'm interested to hear other people's reflections on this topic.