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Each time you look at a tangerine, you can see deeply into it. You can see everything in the universe in one tangerine. When you peel it and smell it, it’s wonderful. You can take your time eating a tangerine and be very happy.
Nhat Hanh
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote highlights the joy and profound beauty found in simple experiences, such as enjoying a tangerine.

Nhat Hanh's quote emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and appreciating the small pleasures in life. By inviting us to observe and savor a tangerine, he illustrates how everyday moments can connect us to the universe and bring happiness when experienced fully and lovingly.

Themes

MindfulnessHappinessSimplicityAppreciationJoy

In practice

Example use cases

During a mindfulness workshop, this quote could be used to teach participants about the joy found in simple experiences.

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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.
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