We can smile, breathe, walk, and eat our meals in a way that allows us to be in touch with the abundance of happiness that is available. We are very good at preparing to live, but not very good at living. We know how to sacrifice ten years for a diploma, and we are willing to work very hard to get a job, a car, a house, and so on. But we have difficulty remembering that we are alive in the present moment, the only moment there is for us to be alive. Every breath we take, every step we make, can be filled with peace, joy, and serenity. We need only to be awake, alive in the present moment.
Nhat HanhIn Buddhism, we speak of touching Nirvana with our own body, In Christianity, you can also touch the Kingdom of God with your body, right here and now. it is much safer than placing our hope in the future. If we cling to the idea of hope in the future, we might not notice the peace and joy that are available in the present moment. The best way to take care of the future is to take care of the present moment.
Nhat HanhIf you find yourself in some difficulty, step aside, and allow Buddha to take your place. The Buddha is in you.
Nhat HanhIn the Light of interbeing, peace and happiness in your daily life means peace and happiness in the world.
Nhat HanhDon't think you have to be solemn to meditate. To meditate, well, you have to smile a lot.
Nhat Hanh