Today we’re talking about the impact our environment has on us. In Buddhism, a crucial concept called “the oneness of life and environment” teaches that our environment is simply a reflection of our own life. Because they are interconnected, when we change internally, it’s reflected in our environment. For an explainer on the topic, check out this video.

To unpack this idea, we’re speaking with Nile Ross, of Santa Monica, California, about how his practice of chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo has enabled him to become someone whose internal sense of confidence and self-love outweighs any negativity he experiences from his environment. Based on this shift, he has created a life and career he truly loves.

CHEAT SHEET

1:24 Nile’s early experiences with chanting Nam-myoho-reng-kyo

15:51 The turning point he experienced in 2018

25:28 How he came to redefine happiness for himself

30:51 The impact of making chanting a priority

37:08 How he transformed early experiences with bullying and racism into a sense of purpose

44:08 Becoming a better person by overcoming struggles

49:04 Nile’s favorite Buddhist quotes about revolution

52:29 Advice for anyone new to Buddhism

References:

Correction: It was mentioned that the 50k Lions of Justice Festival took place in 3 cities, but it actually took place in 9.