Before we can generate compassion and love, it is important to have a clear understanding of what we understand compassion and love to be. In simple terms, compassion and love can be defined as positive thoughts and feelings that give rise to such essential things in...

‘Things cease due to utter destruction, But not due to understanding their conditioned nature; To whom will this be evident? How can “destruction” be possible?’ Arya Nagarjuna

‘Reflecting on the way it is brings into consciousness what a lifespan as a human being involves.’ Ajahn Sumedho

From the moment language blinked into existence, humans have tried to hold onto the words that accompany our mysterious moments of insight. We’ve etched them on bones, written them on papyrus scrolls, attached them to the refrigerator with a magnet. A bit more than a...

The life story of the Buddha is lofty, elevated, and inspiring, providing us with a role model we can admire and respect. We marvel at Prince Siddhartha’s renunciation of worldly life, and we are in awe at his attainment of buddhahood. But does the story also provide...

‘Patience requires us to go beyond the choice between fleeing or fighting. It is the third and most difficult way. Affectionate awareness starts being a real central value in our lives.’ Corrado Pensa

When I was young, trees were my friends. I’d climb up among the branches of the ones beside our three-story apartment building until I was higher than the roof. Perched among clouds and birds, I found comfort and ease. The friendliest tree was the sycamore. It had...

‘Both samsara and nirvana, Neither of these two exists; The thorough understanding of cyclic existence — This is referred to as “nirvana.”’ Arya Nagarjuna

‘All processes are impermanent, Which are the dharma of birth and death. Having ended birth and death, Nirvana is delight!’ Sutra of Maitreya