The more spacious and larger our fundamental nature, the more bearable the pains in living.

When we come close to those things that break us down, we touch those things that also break us open. And in that breaking open, we uncover our true nature.

As Gandhi wisely points out, even as we serve others we are working on ourselves; every act, every word, every gesture of genuine compassion naturally nourishes our own hearts as well. It is not a question of who is healed first. When we attend to ourselves with compassion and mercy, more healing is made available for others. And when we serve others with an open and generous heart, great healing comes to us.

What we choose to love is very important for what we love leads our eyes, ears, and hearts on a pilgrimage that shapes the texture of our lives.

The heart of most spiritual practices is simply this: Remember who you are. Remember what you love. Remember what is sacred. Remember what is true. Remember that you will die and that this day is a gift. Remember how you wish to live.

What we love and what captures our curiosity draws us forward into some place of great destiny.

For thousands of years we have gathered in circle--around fires, around bodies, around altars--because we can't do this alone.