It is possible to live happily in the here and the now. So many conditions of happiness are available - more than enough for you to be happy right now. You don't have to run into the future in order to get more.
Thich Nhat HanhRead
It's normal for human beings to identify with their own separate self. The problem is that we get caught in that notion of ourself as a separate individual and caught in that individual self's agenda.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Humans often see themselves as separate individuals, leading to fixation on personal agendas, which can be problematic.
Thich Nhat Hanh's quote highlights a common tendency for individuals to identify with their separated selves, emphasizing that this identification can trap us within a narrow perspective focused solely on personal desires and objectives. This notion can create obstacles to connection and understanding with others, ultimately limiting our personal growth and mutual compassion.
Themes
SelfIdentitySeparationAgendaUnderstandingCompassion
In practice
Example use cases
During a meditation workshop, this quote can be shared to illustrate the importance of transcending individual self-obsession.
More from Thich Nhat Hanh
All quotes →Nothing can be by itself alone, no one can be by himself or herself alone, everyone has to inter-be with every one else. That is why, when you look outside, around you, you can see yourself.
Thich Nhat HanhRead
When you have peace in yourself and accept, then you are calm enough to do something, but if you are carried by despair, there is no hope.
Thich Nhat HanhRead
When you learn about the teaching and the practice of another tradition, you always have a chance to understand your own teaching and practice.
Thich Nhat HanhRead
Fear, separation, hate and anger come from the wrong view that you and the Earth are two separate entities, the Earth is only the environment. You are in the centre and you want to do something for the Earth in order for you to survive. That is a dualistic way of seeing.
Thich Nhat HanhRead
When you have enough understanding and compassion in you, then that amount of understanding and compassion will try to express itself in action. And your practice should help you to cultivate more understanding and compassion.
Thich Nhat HanhRead
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