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
Every thought you produce, anything you say, any action you do, it bears your signature.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Your thoughts, words, and actions reflect your true self.
This quote emphasizes the notion that each individual's thoughts, words, and actions are uniquely theirs and serve as a representation of their inner self or personal identity. Everything we express and do carries a personal imprint, suggesting that we must be mindful of how we communicate and act, as these elements contribute to our legacy and character.
Themes
ThoughtsActionsSelfIdentityMindfulness
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about personal responsibility.
More from Nhat Hanh
All quotes βI have lost my smile, but don't worry. The dandelion has it.
Nhat HanhRead
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.
Nhat HanhRead
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.
Nhat HanhRead
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.
Nhat HanhRead
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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Don't consider our interests or desires. You have no duty to anyone but yourself.
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So long as we only believe in the justice of the state, of the law-made by those in power, to serve those in power-so long will we continue to be exploited by those in power.
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A man is never the same for long. He is continually changing. He seldom remains the same even for half an hour.
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