When things go wrong, we tell ourselves and others:
- “Keep your fingers crossed.”
- “Look on the bright side.”
- “Every cloud has a silver lining.”
- “There’s light at the end of the tunnel.”
While these phrases are meant to comfort us, they often ring hollow because they rely on hope—a passive waiting for the world to change on its own. In Buddhism, we recognize that hope can actually be a trap, keeping us tethered to anxiety about a future we feel we cannot control.
From Passive Hope to Active Power
Buddhism does not rely on hope. Instead, it is based on cause and effect, Karma.
Karma is not fate or luck; it is a far more powerful tool. It is the understanding that your thoughts, words, and deeds from the past and present create your future. When you understand Karma, you stop waiting for the “silver lining” to appear and start creating the causes for genuine security and joy.
Join Us for Introductory Lecture
Are you ready to stop crossing your fingers and start transforming your life? Join our next Introductory Lecture on Karma, led by our Chief Priest.
- 📅 Date: Sunday, January 25, 2026
- ⏰ Time: 2:00 – 3:15 pm
- 📍 Location: Myosenji Temple (in-person or via live stream – register for link)
- Myosenji Buddhist Temple, 310 University Blvd West, Silver Spring, MD 20901
- Myosenji Live Stream