Do not live with a vocation that is harmful to humans and nature. Do not invest in companies that deprive others of their chance to live. Select a vocation that helps realise your ideal of compassion.
Nhat HanhRead
To be beautiful means to be yourself. You don’t need to be accepted by others. You need to accept yourself.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True beauty comes from self-acceptance rather than seeking external validation.
This quote emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and authenticity in defining beauty. It suggests that being true to oneself and embracing one's uniqueness is far more significant than conforming to the expectations or approval of others, underscoring that inner beauty shines brighter than outward appearances.
Themes
Self-AcceptanceBeautyAuthenticityInner BeautyWisdom
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about embracing individuality during a seminar.
More from Nhat Hanh
All quotes →I have lost my smile, but don't worry. The dandelion has it.
Nhat HanhRead
I realize that many elements of the Buddhist teaching can be found in Christianity, Judaism, Islam. I think if Buddhism can help, it is the concrete methods of practice.
Nhat HanhRead
Aware of the suffering caused by the destruction of life, I am committed to cultivating compassion and learning ways to protect the lives of people, animals, plants, and minerals. I am determined not to kill, not to let others kill, and not to support any act of killing in the world, in my thinking, and in my way of life.
Nhat HanhRead
The therapist does not treat patients by simply giving them another set of beliefs. He or she tries to help them see which kinds of ideas and beliefs have led to their suffering. Many patients want to get rid of their painful feelings, but they do not want to get rid of their beliefs, the viewpoints that are the very roots of their feelings.
Nhat HanhRead
Scientists tell us that we have enough technology to save our planet. . . . Yet we don't take advantage of this new technology. . . . The technological has to work hand-in-hand with the spiritual. Our spiritual life is the element that can bring about the energies of peace, calm, brotherhood, understanding, and compassion. Without that, our planet doesn't stand a chance.
Nhat HanhRead
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I consider looseness with words no less of a defect than looseness of the bowels.
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