There are some things we can't choose, but in being present we can choose how we want to relate to them

My first book, 'Radical Acceptance', grew out of the suffering of feeling personally deficient and unworthy. Because most of us are so quick to turn against ourselves, the teachings and practices of radical acceptance continue as a strong current in 'True Refuge': nurturing a forgiving, understanding heart is a basic step on the path.

Awakening self-compassion is often the greatest challenge people face on the spiritual path.

In intimate relationships, if we start trying to be more real, it's very scary.

People don't behave in angry ways unless they are feeling stressed and conflicted too.

I think of desire as the essence that brings forth the whole universe.

Perhaps the biggest tragedy of our lives is that freedom is possible, yet we can pass our years trapped in the same old patterns...We may want to love other people without holding back, to feel authentic, to breathe in the beauty around us, to dance and sing. Yet each day we listen to inner voices that keep our life small.