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
You carry Mother Earth within you. She is not outside of you. Mother Earth is not just your environment.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the deep connection between humans and the Earth, highlighting that our relationship with nature is intrinsic and not external.
Thich Nhat Hanh's quote encourages us to recognize that we are an integral part of the Earth and that our wellbeing is closely linked to the health of the environment. By understanding that Mother Earth exists within us, we can foster a greater sense of responsibility toward nature, realizing that it is not separate from us, but rather a vital aspect of our existence and identity.
Themes
EarthNatureRelationshipEnvironmentConnection
In practice
Example use cases
In an environmental talk to raise awareness about sustainability.
More from Nhat Hanh
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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.
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