To think in terms of either pessimism or optimism oversimplifies the truth. The problem is to see reality as it is.
Nhat HanhIt is not impermanence that makes us suffer. What makes us suffer is wanting things to be permanent when they are not.
Nhat HanhIn order to heal others, we first need to heal ourselves. And to heal ourselves, we need to know how to deal with ourselves.
Nhat HanhThe nectar of compassion is so wonderful. If you are committed to keeping it alive, then you are protected. What the other person says will not touch off the anger and irritation in you, because compassion is the real antidote to anger. Nothing can heal anger except compassion. That is why the practice of compassion is a very wonderful practice.
Nhat Hanh