It isn’t what happens to us that causes us to suffer; it’s what we say to ourselves about what happens.
PEMA CHODRONThe essence of generosity is letting go. Pain is always a sign that we are holding on to something – usually ourselves.
More Pema Chodron Quotes
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Things falling apart is a kind of testing and also a kind of healing.
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Rejoicing in ordinary things is not sentimental or trite. It actually takes guts. Each time we drop our complaints and allow everyday good fortune to inspire us, we enter the warrior’s world.
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Since death is certain and the time of death is uncertain, what is the most important thing?
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There’s nothing more important on our spiritual path than developing gentleness to oneself.
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The best spiritual instruction is when you wake up in the morning and say, ‘I wonder what’s going to happen today.’ And then carry that kind of curiosity through your life.
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If you follow your heart, you’re going to find that it is often extremely inconvenient.
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Use what seems like poison as medicine. Use your personal suffering as the path to compassion for all beings.
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Resisting what is happening is a major cause of suffering.
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Each person’s life is like a mandala – a vast, limitless circle. We stand in the center of our own circle, and everything we see, hear and think forms the mandala of our life … everything that shows up in your mandala is a vehicle for your awakening.
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The truth you believe and cling to makes you unavailable to hear anything new.
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Our true nature is like a precious jewel: although it may be temporarily buried in mud, it remains completely brilliant and unaffected. We simply have to uncover it.
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Treat yourself as your own beloved child.
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Let your curiosity be greater than your fear.
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Feeling irritated, restless, afraid, and hopeless is a reminder to listen more carefully.
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All you need to know is that the future is wide open and you are about to create it by what you do.
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