Do not live with a vocation that is harmful to humans and nature. Do not invest in companies that deprive others of their chance to live. Select a vocation that helps realise your ideal of compassion.
Nhat HanhRead
But if we have the energy of compassion and loving kindness in us, the people around us will be influenced by our way of being and living.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Compassion and kindness can positively influence those around us.
This quote by Nhat Hanh emphasizes the profound effect that compassion and loving kindness can have on others. By embodying these qualities in our daily lives, we not only uplift ourselves but also inspire and positively impact the people we encounter, creating a ripple effect of goodwill and empathy in our communities.
Themes
CompassionKindnessInfluenceEnergyLove
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about community service to highlight the importance of kindness.
More from Nhat Hanh
All quotes βI have lost my smile, but don't worry. The dandelion has it.
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I realize that many elements of the Buddhist teaching can be found in Christianity, Judaism, Islam. I think if Buddhism can help, it is the concrete methods of practice.
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Aware of the suffering caused by the destruction of life, I am committed to cultivating compassion and learning ways to protect the lives of people, animals, plants, and minerals. I am determined not to kill, not to let others kill, and not to support any act of killing in the world, in my thinking, and in my way of life.
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The therapist does not treat patients by simply giving them another set of beliefs. He or she tries to help them see which kinds of ideas and beliefs have led to their suffering. Many patients want to get rid of their painful feelings, but they do not want to get rid of their beliefs, the viewpoints that are the very roots of their feelings.
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Scientists tell us that we have enough technology to save our planet. . . . Yet we don't take advantage of this new technology. . . . The technological has to work hand-in-hand with the spiritual. Our spiritual life is the element that can bring about the energies of peace, calm, brotherhood, understanding, and compassion. Without that, our planet doesn't stand a chance.
Nhat HanhRead
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