Our notions about happiness entrap us. We forget that they are just ideas. Our idea of happiness can prevent us from actually being happy. We fail to see the opportunity for joy that is right in front of us when we are caught in a belief that happiness should take a particular form.
Nhat HanhIt is not impermanence that makes us suffer. What makes us suffer is wanting things to be permanent when they are not.
Nhat HanhWe have to look deeply at things in order to see. When a swimmer enjoys the clear water of the river, he or she should also be able to be the river.
Nhat Hanh