Pema Chodron Quotes

The Buddha taught that we’re not actually in control, which is a pretty scary idea. But when you let things be as they are, you will be a much happier, more balanced, compassionate person.

Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It’s a relationship between equals. Only when we know our own darkness well can we be present with the darkness of others. Compassion becomes real when we recognize our shared humanity.

Feel the feelings and drop the story.

If we learn to open our hearts, anyone, including the people who drive us crazy, can be our teacher.

Not causing harm requires staying awake. Part of being awake is slowing down enough to notice what we say and do. The more we witness our emotional chain reactions and understand how they work, the easier it is to refrain. It becomes a way of life to stay awake, slow down, and notice.

Nothing ever goes away until it has taught us what we need to know. Even if we run a hundred miles an hour to the other side of the continent, we find the very same problem awaiting us when we arrive.

Nothing ever goes away until it has taught us what we need to know.

Deep down in the human spirit, there is a reservoir of courage. It is always available, always waiting to be discovered.

The most difficult times for many of us are the ones we give ourselves.

Rejoicing in the good fortune of others is a practice that can help us when we feel emotionally shut down and unable to connect with others. Rejoicing generates good will.

Let your curiosity be greater than your fear.

I equate ego with trying to figure everything out instead of going with the flow. That closes your heart and your mind to the person or situation that’s right in front of you, and you miss so much.

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

You are the sky. Everything else – it’s just the weather.