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The entire cosmos is a cooperative. The sun, the moon, and the stars live together as a cooperative. The same is true for humans and animals, trees, and the Earth. When we realize that the world is a mutual, interdependent, cooperative enterprise -- then we can build a noble environment. If our lives are not based on this truth, then we shall perish.
Buddhadasa
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings and the importance of cooperation for survival.

Buddhadasa highlights the profound connection between all entities in the cosmos, asserting that everything from celestial bodies to humans and animals thrives in a symbiotic relationship. Recognizing this interdependence fosters a sense of responsibility towards each other and the Earth, encouraging us to create a harmonious environment. The acknowledgment of this mutual arrangement is crucial, as failing to understand it could lead to our downfall.

Themes

CooperationInterdependenceCommunityNatureEnvironment

In practice

Example use cases

In a speech about environmental conservation, I would use this quote to highlight the importance of harmony between humans and nature.

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The practice is to make the non-arising of grasping and clinging absolute, final, and eternally void, so that no grasping and clinging can ever return. Just that is enough. There is nothing else to do.
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