good character and fate

Before we can help, we need to understand. Before we can understand, we need to listen. Before we can listen, we need to be silent. This is why we have two eyes and two ears and only one mouth so that we might understand the before we assist another through spoken words we must first observe, consider and listen more than we must speak. Through observation and patient listening we gain the understanding and ability to make good use of the power of the spoken word.

It is time to heal the wounds born of bitterness and violence, for if left untended, they will reap irreparable damage. We will reap what we sow. Only sincere thoughts and deeds will create the joyful world we seek. May all our hearts and minds bond together to forge the unshakeable promise to bring our world everlasting peace.

It is right for us to respect and safeguard every living creature, for they are one with us. All beings fear death, all beings dislike suffering and injury. All beings desire life, safety and well being. In truth we are all just aspects of a single being. We may feel we are dissimilar, but in essence we are the same with universal beliefs and values. May the perfection of our true selves blossom within us as we let go of hypocrisy and jealousy, bringing forth equanimity and wisdom to know patience and unity.

Heal others' unhappiness with loving-kindness, their bitterness with compassion. Let us heal our selfishness with joy at others' success and our frustrations with equanimity.

Most of the things we worry about never happen. Do not resent the heavens for one's fate. Do not blame our problems on others. Realize the negative cause lies within us, was created by us, can only be changed by us, resolved by us with understanding, diligence and love. No one can soil another. No one can purify another. We alone soil and stain ourselves. We alone and cleanse and purify ourselves. Whe you notice that you have become soiled or dirty do you bathe or cleanse yourself or does another do it for you. You wash and cleanse yourself right?! In like manner wash and cleanse your mind.

So often, we forget to be thankful.  But while we all have problems, experience difficult relationships, fail in our undertakings, there are many things in our lives to be thankful for. All we have to do is to slow down, take note, value them and be thankful.

Kindness will accomplish that which force never will.