Unless we base our sense of identity upon the truth of who we are, it is impossible to attain true happiness.

The best defense against being hurt is to feel good about yourself and the way a person responds to you says more about them, than about you.

This is how we know we are in a loving relationship. We are blooming, and the one we love is blooming as well.

Another simple and powerful way to dissolve problems is not to dwell upon the outcome of your actions. Instead, learn to value each action (no matter how small or large), to do it with complete attention. Your joy and satisfaction comes from doing each action with a whole heart and mind. Results and consequences then take care of themselves. When you are not absorbed by concern for outcomes, how much anxiety can you ever have?

In a relationship if you are giving and getting nothing back in return, stop giving so much, and spend time being. Give to yourself, be who you are.

Do not make this practice a source of pressure, compulsion, anxiety or pride. It is none of these. Zazen is simply a way to find your true home.

All experiences are welcomed and fully digested, not judged good or bad.