Prayers, Practice and Deep Compassion for Ukraine

Violence has again erupted in Kiev, the capital of Ukraine, and is reported elsewhere. Clashes between protestors and police are reported to have claimed the lives of at least 14 protestors, 10 police officers and a journalist, with several hundred people injured on both sides. The conflict, which has oscillated between calm and violence for months, escalated dramatically on February 18th, with policemen being shot, and riot police moving in to clear the peaceful protest camp on the city’s Independence Square, called Maidan Square.

In a message to the members of Shambhala in Kiev, Shambhala President Richard Reoch wrote: “We are witness to the great tragedy that is tearing apart the fabric of society in Ukraine. Please know that the prayers, practice and deep compassion of Shambhala worldwide are with you . . .”

Please hold all the people in the country, who are profoundly affected by this conflict, in your hearts and practice. You may wish to dedicate a period of practice to all who are caught up in the tragedy, or do specific practices, such as tonglen, for them.