it is only to the extent that we are willing to expose ourselves again and again to annihilation that we are able to find that part of ourselves that is indestructible.

Without loving-kindness for ourselves, it is difficult, if not impossible, to genuinely feel it for others.

In order to have compassion for others, we have to have compassion for ourselves.

Gloriousness and wretchedness need each other. One inspires us, the other softens us.

What's encouraging about meditation is that, even if we shut down, we can no longer shut down in ignorance. We see very clearly that we're closing off. That in itself begins to illuminate the darkness of ignorance.

Be kinder to yourself. And then let your kindness flood the world.

Fear is a natural reaction of moving closer to the truth. If we commit ourselves to staying right where we are, then our experience becomes very vivid. Things become very clear when there is nowhere to escape.