Most spiritual experiences begin with suffering. They begin with groundlessness. They begin when the rug has been pulled out from under us.
Pema ChodronWhatever happens in your life, joyful or painful, do not be swept away by reactivity. Be patient with yourself and don't lose your sense of perspective.
Pema ChodronAll the terrible things we do to ourselves and others from alcoholism to character assignation to abuse to murder come from one cause: the inability to stay present with an uncomfortable feeling in the body and seek short-term relief.
Pema ChodronWE ALREADY HAVE everything we need. There is no need for self-improvement. All these trips that we lay on ourselvesโthe heavy-duty fearing that weโre bad and hoping that weโre good, the identities that we so dearly cling to, the rage, the jealousy and the addictions of all kindsโnever touch our basic wealth. They are like clouds that temporarily block the sun. But all the time our warmth and brilliance are right here. This is who we really are. We are one blink of an eye away from being fully awake.
Pema Chodron