[Buddha-l] Diversions, distractions and off-topic discussions

[curt]

Caring passionately about political and social issues, and engaging in 
robust debate about them are no more or less related to practice than 
chopping wood, carrying water, sitting meditation, chanting mantras, 
etc. The 12th century Zen Master Ta Hui said "Practice in the midst of 
activity is a million times superior to practice pursued in 
tranquility." Hakuin did a famous calligraphy of this saying, and 
commented on it: "Those who practice only in silence cannot establish 
their freedom when entering into activity. When they engage in worldly 
activities, their satori will disappear completely."
- Curt

Mike Austin wrote:

> So I have a question of those who post their opinions on such matters 
> as presidents, governments, nations, wars, other religions, musicians 
> etc.: where does this fit into your practice of the Buddhist path, 
> liberation, awakening, enlightenment etc?
>