We need to be aware of the suffering, but retain our clarity, calmness and strength so we can help transform the situation.

Many people think excitement is happiness.... But when you are excited you are not peaceful. True happiness is based on peace.

You are me, and I am you. Isn't it obvious that we "inter-are"? You cultivate the flower in yourself, so that I will be beautiful. I transform the garbage in myself, so that you will not have to suffer.

I clean this teapot with the kind of attention I would have were I giving the baby Buddha or Jesus a bath.

But if we have the energy of compassion and loving kindness in us, the people around us will be influenced by our way of being and living.

There is no way to happiness - happiness is the way.

You only need to walk in mindfulness, making peaceful, happy steps on our planet. Breathe deeply, and enjoy your breathing. Be aware that the sky is blue and the birds' songs are beautiful. Enjoy being alive and you will help the living Christ and the living Buddha continue for a long, long time.