We can gradually drop our ideals of who we think we ought to be, or who we think we want to be, or who we think other people think we want to be or ought to be.

The approach is that the best way to use unwanted circumstances on the path of enlightenment is not to resist but to lean into them.

When we feel left out, inadequate, or lonely, can we take a warrior’s perspective and contact bodhichitta?

Allow situations in your life to become your teacher.

When things are shaky and nothing is working, we might realize that we are on the verge of something. We might realize that this is a very vulnerable and tender place, and that tenderness can go either way. We can shut down and feel resentful or we can touch in on that throbbing quality. (9)

Fear itself is the vanguard of wisdom

We don't set out to save the world; we set out to wonder how other people are doing and to reflect on how our actions affect other people's hearts.