There is the story that after the Buddha’s enlightenment Mara, the king of delusion asked the Buddha what he thought gave him the right to think he could direct humankind away from the suffering it had always endured.  In response, the Buddha touched the Earth to witness his right to be there.  He acknowledged where he came from—recognized his true heritage and lineage—that of the Earth.

Similarly, we come together as a sangha to acknowledge our heritage, our lineage—all those beings who in the last 2,500 years have endeavored to sit with dignity, touch the earth and face everything that is within—their own greed, hatred, and delusion that underlies the suffering we endure.  These are all states we have in common and that can be worked with and transformed.  And we can also see the commonality of the kindness, compassion, love and peace that can lift us up.  These are also human states and through practice, can be uncovered and cultivated.  The teachings show us a way in which we can work with all the forces in the mind. And this path can teach us, through meditation, study and practice, a way to free ourselves from all suffering.