I have lost my smile, but don't worry. The dandelion has it.
Nhat HanhRead
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.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Choose a career that benefits both humanity and the environment, aligning with compassion.
This quote by Thich Nhat Hanh emphasizes the importance of selecting a vocation that not only supports one's livelihood but also contributes positively to society and the planet. It encourages individuals to avoid engaging in harmful professions or supporting companies that exploit or endanger others, advocating instead for a career path that embodies compassion and social responsibility.
Themes
CompassionVocationNatureHumanityEthics
In practice
Example use cases
In a commencement speech to encourage students to consider the impact of their career choices.
More from Nhat Hanh
All quotes →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.
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.
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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
In mindfulness one is not only restful and happy, but alert and awake. Meditation is not evasion; it is a serene encounter with reality.
Nhat HanhRead
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