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.

When we are able to receive life's challenges as koans rather than problems, they become interesting and exciting, rather than ponderous and depressing.

We create a mask to meet the masks of others. Then we wonder why we cannot love, and why we feel so alone.

When we are willing to accept our experience, just as it is, a strange thing happens: it changes into something else. When we avoid pain, struggle not to feel it, pain turns into suffering.

In the Zen Way we focus upon each breath, each day, each moment and experience it totally. One complete breath brings the next.

A time of uncertainty, of not knowing exactly where we're headed, or what kind of choice to make is a Zen moment.

We are what we think about. When we stay fixed on one person, thought or situation, we get caught in the grip of self-centered thoughts. The more we give attention to that which is upsetting, the more strength it has to rule our lives.