To protect this earth is to protect the very spirit of life

As the conceptual, material world increases its hold on us, and inanimate objects become more lifelike, we humans must become more human. Open hearts, kindness and care-these are our most precious gifts.

The bones and tendons of the mind are mindfulness and awareness. Mindfulness is the mind’s strength, and awareness is its flexibility. Without these abilities, we cannot function. When we drink a glass of water, drive a car, or have a conversation, we are using mindfulness and awareness.

People can be trained in certain principles, but then they actually have to apply them and try them out.

Ultimately, as individuals we each have to ask ourselves to be courageous and apply certain principles.

I think Shambhala can be a very strong force as a social example of how you can try to live a life balanced in terms of both the spiritual and the secular.

If you want to be miserable, think of yourself. If you want to be happy, think of others.