Be Free Where You Are Quotes

“THE FIVE CONTEMPLATIONS This food is the gift of the whole universe, the Earth, the sky, and much hard work. May we eat in such a way as to be worthy to receive it. May we transform our unskillful states of mind and learn to eat in moderation. May we take only food that nourishes us and prevents illness. We accept this food in order to realize the path of understanding and love.”
― Thích Nhất Hạnh, Be Free Where You Are

“For me, there is no happiness without freedom, and freedom is not given to us by anyone; we have to cultivate it ourselves.”
― Thích Nhất Hạnh, Be Free Where You Are

“This brings her a lot of joy and gives her life meaning. This can be true for all of us anytime, anywhere. Just saying a few words that make another person suffer less can give our lives meaning.
And it is something we can do anywhere.
When your life is meaningful, happiness becomes a reality and you become a bodhisattva right here and now.”
― Thích Nhất Hạnh, Be Free Where You Are

“I do not wait until there is joy in me to smile, joy will come later. Sometimes when I am alone in my room in the dark, I practice smiling to myself. I do this to be kind to myself, to take good care of myself, to love myself. I know that if I cannot take care of myself, I cannot take care of anyone else.

Being compassionate to yourself is a very important practice. When you are tired, angry or in despair, you should know how to get back to yourself and take care of your tiredness, your anger and your despair. That is why we practice smiling, mindful walking and breathing and mindful eating.

Vasana is the Sanskrit word for habit energy. Every one of us has habit energies that push us to say and do things we don't want to say or do. These habit energies damage us and our relationships to other people.”
― Thich Nhat Hanh, Be Free Where You Are

“When you understand the pain of those who cause you suffering and choose to let it go, forgiveness will come naturally, because compassion will be present. When it is necessary, you can be firm and strong, but never lose your kindness or your beauty.”
― Thich Nhat Hanh, Be Free Where You Are