Compassion is often misunderstood. Partly because we do not have a good word in English that gives the full meaning of ‘nyingje’ or ‘karuṇā’. Not only is this general compassion, it includes enlightened wisdom. There […]
When the going gets tough, the tough get going. Recently a friend died peacefully, only diagnosed months before with a terminal illness. He was tough, inside. His heart was filled with love and a sense […]
“When the going gets tough, the tough get going.” This popular saying about courage and strength is very true. From a dharma perspective it means to take whatever comes our way into the path. When […]
Healthy self-confidence is essential for compassion. It covers both sides of the equation. Humility leads to concern and compassion for others. Self-confidence leads to taking care of ourself through self-compassion. Moving towards this attitude of […]
It is important to believe in ourselves, but not too much! The balance is believing in ourself but not over-inflating into arrogance thinking we are better, smarter, more beautiful than others. Self-confidence inspires us. Humility […]
The more we forgive the more we feel grateful. The more we feel grateful the more we forgive. These two — forgiveness and gratitude — are mutually supportive. They set the tone for the day […]
We are down to the last pair of the 8 worldly activities, pleasure and pain. While it is not bad to enjoy pleasure, getting too attached and being “led by the nose” disrupts our life. […]
Being altruistic does not mean totally rejecting our own interest or neglecting oneself, this is a misunderstanding. In fact, the kind of altruism that focuses on the well-being of others arises from a very courageous […]
Merely thinking that compassion, love, patience, appreciation, forgiveness, and gratitude are good qualities, is not be enough. In order to develop them, we must wait for difficulties to arise. Then with courage and conviction attempt […]
Human Values Institute