The Vimalakirti Sutra states that, when one seeks the Buddhas' emancipation in the minds of ordinary beings, one finds that ordinary beings are the entities of enlightenment, and that the sufferings of birth and death are nirvana. It also states that, if the minds of living beings are impure, their land is also impure, but if their minds are pure, so is their land. There are not two lands, pure or impure in themselves. The difference lies solely in the good or evil of our minds.

That which you give to another will become your own sustenance; if you light a lamp for another, your own way will be lit.

Summoning up the courage to take action is always the same regardless of how seemingly big or small the challenge. What may look like a small act of courage is courage nonetheless. The important thing is to be willing to take a step forward.

Suffer what there is to suffer. Enjoy what there is to enjoy. Regard both suffering and joy as facts of life.

Do not go about complaining how hard it is to live in this world. such behavior is entirely unworthy of a real man.

Never let life's hardships disturb you. No one can avoid problems, not even saints or sages.

If one lights a fire for others, one will brighten one's own way.