Shared Values and Guidelines of the Rigpa Community – June 2018
For the whole Rigpa community:
Commit not a single unwholesome action,
Cultivate a wealth of virtue,
To tame this mind of ours,
This is the teaching of all the buddhas.
—The Buddha
Refraining from Harm
Based on the view of interdependence and an understanding of karma—the law of cause and effect—we recognize that all our actions, words and thoughts have their corresponding consequences, and we strive to avoid harm of any kind.
This means:
- We aim to provide an environment that is safe and supportive for everyone. Therefore, we avoid any action done with an intention to harm, or that could cause physical, emotional or psychological harm.
- Our goal is an environment free of discrimination of any kind, whether based on race, age, ethnicity or national origin, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, or disability.
- We respect others’ personal limits and boundaries, and take care of ourselves by communicating our own.
- Any instances of upsetting behaviour, intimidation, bullying or physical or psychological harassment need to be identified so they can be stopped immediately.
- We take special care to safeguard those who are particularly vulnerable, including children and vulnerable/dependent adults. Safeguarding policies are maintained by the Rigpa national boards as required in each member country.
- We refrain from: taking anything that is not freely given; taking advantage of anyone or cheating them financially; and being careless with sangha resources or using them for personal gain. This includes using Rigpa materials or data without permission, and so violating copyright or breaching confidentiality.
- As practitioners on the path, we take great care to conduct relationships with awareness and kindness. Sexual harassment of any kind, unwanted sexual advances or improper behaviour will not be tolerated within our community.
- Mindful of the damage caused by lies, hurtful words, divisive communication, and thoughtless gossip, we make a point of speaking truthfully, with kindness, awareness and attention to the impact of our speech.
- Recognizing that intoxication can jeopardize our ability to act with awareness and compassion, we refrain from becoming intoxicated by drugs or alcohol while involved in any Rigpa activity.
- The Rigpa community endeavours to reduce our harmful impact upon the environment.