I take up the way of not speaking falsely. Speaking falsely is also killing, and specifically, killing the Dharmna. The lie is set up to defend the idea of a fixed entity, a self image, a concept, or an institution. I want to be known as warm and compassionate, so I deny that I was cruel, even though somebody got hurt. Sometimes I must lie to protect someone or large numbers of people, animals, plants and things from getting hurt, or I believe I must.
Buddha nature pervades the whole universe.
I take up the way of not using drink or drugs. But Buddhism is not absolute. A little wine warms my bones and relaxes my inhibitions, and casual conversation enhances my humanity and the humanity of others. This Precept is warning against addiction and dependency. I take up the way of not discussing faults of others.