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

When we are in a truly loving relationship, we receive the gift of being known and accepted. We become more, not less, of who we are. We receive the space in which to bloom. This is how we know we are in a loving relationship. We are blooming, and the one we love is blooming as well.

It is a mistake to expect all of our needs to be met by one person or in one relationship. Honor and be grateful for that which you receive. Don't become bitter and spend all your time focusing on that which the person is not able to provide.

Fear of the future and longing for the past are major factors which impede appropriate action.

Relying on another is an expression of attachment, not love, a manifestation of insecurity and suffering, not understanding the true nature of our lives.

All conflict we experience in the world, is a conflict within our own selves.

From the Zen view all beings are in the grip of the three poisons, greed, anger and delusion (ignorance).