Two questions about Buddhism?

Knowledge is the answer and as you understand more about universal truth , your life will heal and you will become a better person. When they are talking about value of life equally, they are referring to have respect for all life forms and do onto others as you would have them do onto you. This is basic . You may find it very helpful to start reading the teachings of Deepak Chopra.... he makes it all so much easier to learn this kind of information. Dr Wayne Dwyer is another good one that teaches this type of education ...get some good books..on these 2