Each day our world confronts new obstacles. Just as quickly, we see major breakthroughs in science and technology. Everyday Compassion looks at looks at how the teachings of Buddhism, an ancient body of philosophy and religion in the world, continues to influence and shape all aspects of life today. This column explores how our society, through these tumultuous shifts and changes in the way reality constructs itself, can benefit from following these ancient tenets.

Shaelyn McHugh is a student at the University of California, Santa Barbara. She is part of the rising generation that is ambitiously trying to leave the world a better place than they entered it.

Everyday Compassion is published Occasionally.