Dr. Pamela Ayo Yetunde’s work is something we love to highlight from time to time on this podcast. She brings fresh perspectives about timeless human challenges, deeply rooted in some of history’s oldest and wisest traditions. Her insights uniquely meet our shared reality, addressing the complexities that our interconnected world forces us all to confront. 

Dr. Yetunde has been particularly active in the past year, talking about the ideas presented in her book Casting Indra’s Net: Fostering Spiritual Kinship and Community. Ayo encourages us to recognize that our actions, thoughts, and well-being are intimately connected to those around us through the concept of Indra’s Net—a vast net in which each being is a jewel reflecting all others. 

This understanding is not merely philosophical; it has practical implications for how we engage with each other, especially in a world marked by division and unrest. 

Grace and Mercy Are the Antidote to Division

Ayo’s approach to these issues emphasizes the need to create spaces where respectful dialogue can flourish—even (or perhaps especially) among those with differing viewpoints. She also highlights the importance of nonviolent communication—and that means nonviolent both physically and emotionally.

For instance, in her recent engagements, Ayo has highlighted how compassion can be extended to those whose beliefs we may find challenging—particularly important when addressing entrenched issues like systemic racism and other deeply-rooted forms of inequality. “Grace and mercy” are two of the concepts she stresses most: We must recognize not only our own vulnerability in these conversations, but others’ as well—and then choose not to exacerbate that vulnerability if things begin to break down.

As difficult as it is, it is important to realize when a conversation is going nowhere. It can be extremely frustrating to be attempting to share what you consider to be vital information, only for the person you are speaking with to hear the buzzwords and nothing else, but sometimes there is nothing you can do. That is a person who is not ready to receive the wisdom you have, and trying to force them to listen anyway will only make them more resistant to it in the future.

In those situations, it is an act of grace to recognize that their mind is in defense mode, to and to choose to let it go and return to things that unify you. Ironically, showing that person grace and mercy in those moments may make it easier for them to be vulnerable around you again—and perhaps by then, they will have had time to open their mind to what you have to say.

You can’t choose what happens to you, but you can control how you react. Choosing to react with grace always feels better at the end of the day, and it helps people to see you as a safe resource of knowledge, as well as a friend.

Activism Helps Build Community

Ayo also believes that activism is not just about protesting or raising awareness, but, more importantly, about building networks of support and kinship that can sustain long-term change. Her recent work also includes exploring the role of activism in community life: One of Dr. Pamela Ayo Yetunde’s key projects in 2024 is the Buddhist Justice Reporter, which she co-founded. 

This publication reflects her commitment to applying Buddhist principles to real-world issues, particularly in the realm of social justice. Their incisive articles help break down some of today’s thorniest issues, from perspectives that do not always receive their fair share in the spotlight.

“We are interdependent and there’s no escaping that. Why not make the most of it—by enjoying each other, relying on one another? Not living in fear of isolation and alienation because I know my neighbor is going to have my back…and I’m going to have theirs.”

In her teachings, Dr. Yetunde often speaks about the need for spiritual kinship—finding “our people,” who share our values and aspirations. This kinship is the foundation for creating compassionate communities that uplift and support one another, especially during times of crisis.

Humans Need Community To Survive

The modern ideal of independence is not only overrated, it is basically impossible—humans are a social species, and we need one another to survive. There is no true advantage in listening to that negative mental chatter that tells us that we’re safer if we stay where we are and don’t branch out; the people around you shaped you as you grew, and no matter how old you are or how complete you may think your perspective is, other people can always improve your way of thinking. 

Staying open to new perspectives plants the seeds of community all around you, and through her writings, teachings, and activism, Dr. Ayo Yetunde invites us to see our daily challenges—whether they be personal conflicts, societal divisions, or global crises—as opportunities to cultivate those seeds and transform our future. 

Her work continues to be a beacon of light for those seeking to navigate the complexities of modern life, not only addressing the urgent issues of our time, but also providing a roadmap for how we can move forward together, grounded in the principles of compassion, kinship, and nonviolent communication.

It may be difficult to believe that this is still true at this moment in history, but we can greatly improve each other’s way of thinking, finding a strong philosophical grounding, without talking about politics and religion, and without diving into the flashpoints that often close peoples’ ears. Dr. Yetunde proves that in this conversation, giving us access to the timeless wisdom while keeping us all under the tent together.

• Book: Casting Indra’s Net: Fostering Spiritual Kinship and Community by Pamela Ayo Yetunde
• Podcast: Flint Sparks CoG Episode #143
• Podcast: Michael Wood-Lewis’ (Front Porch Forum) CoG Episode #151
• Book: Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life: Life-Changing Tools for Healthy Relationships by Marshall B. Rosenberg
• Website: Buddhist Justice Reporter

• 00:00 – Intro & Welcome
• 02:44 – Interdependence
• 09:30 – Find Compassion Towards Yourself
• 15:26 – Break
• 17:41 – Grace
• 23:29 – How to Be Resilient
• 28:00 – Tips for Conflict Resolution with Others
• 34:00 – Recognize Your Limiting Beliefs
• 39:00 – Origin of Original Courage
• 45:59 – Who Should You Give Your Attention To?
• 52:12 – Closing