quotations about Buddhism
We have two alternatives: either we question our beliefs -- or we don't. Either we accept our fixed versions of reality -- or we begin to challenge them. In Buddha's opinion, to train in staying open and curious -- to train in dissolving our assumptions and beliefs -- is the best use of our human lives.
PEMA CHODRON
The Pocket Pema Chodron
The more truthful I am with myself and others, the more my conscience is clear and tranquil. Thus, I can more thoroughly and unequivocally inhabit the present moment and accept everything that happens without fear, knowing that what goes around comes around (the law of karma). Ethical morality and self-discipline represent the good ground, or stable basis. Mindful awareness is the skillful and efficacious grow-path, or way. Wisdom and compassion constitute the fruit, or result. This is the essence of Buddhism.
LAMA SURYA DAS
Buddha Is as Buddha Does
To say that Buddhist principles such as dependent origination, emptiness, and suchness are impersonal does not mean that Buddhism is indifferent to human affairs. On the contrary, Buddhism as a religion is essentially concerned with the salvation of humankind.
MASAO ABE
Zen and the Modern World
She believed that the Buddhists were right--that if you want, you will suffer; if you love, you will grieve.
ANNE LAMOTT
Crooked Little Heart
In Buddhism, compassion always goes with wisdom. Compassion without wisdom is not understood to be true compassion, and wisdom without compassion is not true wisdom.
MASAO ABE
Zen and the Modern World
Ignorance, vulnerability, fear, anger, and desire are expressions of the infinite potential of your buddha nature. There's nothing inherently wrong or right with making such choices. The fruit of Buddhist practice is simply the recognition that these and other mental afflictions are nothing more or less than choices available to us because our real nature is infinite in scope.
YONGEY MINGYUR RINPOCHE
Joyful Wisdom: Embracing Change and Finding Freedom