Human beings are not intrinsically selfish, which isolates us from others. We are essentially social animals who depend on others to meet our needs. We achieve happiness, prosperity and progress through social interaction. Therefore, having a kind and helpful attitude contributes to our own and others' happiness.
Appearance is something absolute, but reality is not that way - everything is interdependent, not absolute. So that view is very helpful to maintain a peace of mind because the main destroyer of a peaceful mind is anger.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights the distinction between appearance and reality, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all things and the role of anger in disrupting peace of mind.
In this quote, the Dalai Lama reflects on the nature of perception versus reality. He suggests that while appearances may seem fixed and absolute, true reality is characterized by interdependence and complexity. This understanding contributes to a peaceful mind, particularly by recognizing that anger can cloud judgment and disrupt inner tranquility. Embracing the fluidity of reality allows individuals to cultivate a more harmonious existence.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about mindfulness and anger management.
More from Dalai Lama
All quotes →Material objects give rise to physical happiness, while spiritual development gives rise to mental happiness. Since we experience both physical and mental happiness, we need both material and spiritual development. This is why, for our own good and that of society we need to balance material progress with inner development.
All major religious traditions carry basically the same message, that is love, compassion and forgiveness the important thing is they should be part of our daily lives.
The ultimate source of a happy life is warm-heartedness. This means extending to others the kind of concern we have for ourselves. On a simple level we find that if we have a compassionate heart we naturally have more friends. And scientists today are discovering that while anger and hatred eat into our immune system, warm-heartedness and compassion are good for our health.
My religion is kindness. _x000D_ A good mind, a good heart, _x000D_ warm feelings these are _x000D_ the most important things.
If a person's basic state of mind is serene and calm, then it is possible for this inner peace to overwhelm a painful physical experience. On the other hand, if someone is suffering from depression, anxiety, or any form of emotional distress, then even if he or she happens to be enjoying physical comforts, he will not really be able to experience the happiness that these could bring.
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