wisdom – Human Values Institute

We miss out being present

Too often we get swept away into the future, or dragged back into the past. We miss out being present. It is in the present that we find balance, that we find our center. In […]

Compassion is often misunderstood. This is partly because we do not have an equivalent word in English that gives the full meaning of ‘nyingje’ or ‘karuṇā’. It includes enlightened wisdom to eliminate the deepest level […]

Strong and wise, but without anger or violence

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 […]

Transforming ignorance into wisdom

Forgiving takes a heavy load off our chest. We feel light as a feather. Practicing gratitude opens the heart. We feel that everything sparkles. Countering anger with tolerance brings ease and understanding. We feel relaxed. […]

3 levels of dukkha

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 […]

Like an illusion

Experience of our days is up and down. This is on the outside and superficial. As we practice more, an inner experience begins to permeate our whole experience, our whole being. At first it waxes […]

Don’t push it

A square peg doesn’t fit in a round hole. So don’t push it. A round peg doesn’t fit in a square hole. So don’t push it. These are learning situations I often have to relearn. […]

Living in the world

Living in the world, but not part of the world is the best way to serve others. A Bodhisattva strives to help all others. In order to help, we must know their thoughts, feelings, intentions, […]

Amazing grace!

“Amazing grace! how sweet the sound; that saved a wretch; like me! I once was lost, but now am found; was blind, but now I see.” These moving words of the song Amazing Grace are […]

Meaningful life of joy

Living a life with joy is meaningful. Wisdom and compassion play crucial roles. Wisdom helps foster humility. Reduction in ego-centricity is part and parcel of humility. There is automatically more focus on the wellbeing of […]