We must be careful when we tap into the massive suffering in the world, not to be crushed and overwhelmed. Recognizing others’ suffering opens our hearts to compassion. It does not close our hearts. This […]
When you are sick, think of others. When you are well, think of others. By sheer numbers they are more important thus us. This does not diminish our value. Rather, it enhances their value. Through […]
So many people are suffering layer upon layer. Only the tip of the iceberg is apparent. Please remember this when you interact, even virtually, with others. Be kind. Be aware of their trauma. The amount […]
Compassion is the reason we are alive. It is the purpose of our life. Survival depends on it. This is a mantra I want you all to write down, copy many times, and display wherever […]
Today is the most important day of the Buddhist year. Shakyamuni Buddha was born, enlightened, and passed into parinirvana. The results of all of our actions are exponentially multiplied today, so be good! Recite Shakyamuni […]
Today is the 3rd day of celebration of Saga Dawa, the birth, enlightenment, and nirvana month of Shakyamuni Buddha, 2600th year anniversary. The results of all our actions are exponentially increased, so be good! Please […]
Joy comes in many forms. The subtle lasting ones are the best. Even better is when the joys are dedicated to others, in the service of others, bringing love to others. Then the joy radiates […]
Compassion is an often-used word, but rarely understood. According to the Buddha, compassion is the relief of suffering. So, what is suffering? Buddha used the word ‘dukkha.’ We do not have an English equivalent, so […]
People are often confused about how to cultivate compassion. There are several approaches. One method is moving beyond empathy to compassion. Empathy is feeling like the other person is feeling. We often “take on” or […]
Last night in Tokyo with my Human Values Institute group we discussed in some detail the distinctions between empathy and compassion. I had just stepped off a 12+ hour flight, and spent about 20 hours […]
Human Values Institute