Hatred and fear blind us. We no longer see each other. We only see the faces of monsters, and that gives us the courage to destroy each other. ~Thich Nhat Hanh

The sky is pure, open space, free from all obstructions. The nature of our mind is similar: the afflictions, self-centered attitude, and other obscurations are not in its essential nature. Just as clouds may temporarily obscure the open sky, anger, attachment, and confusion can temporarily obscure our mind. When they do, the pure, open nature of the mind still remains; we just can’t see it at the time.

By generating the wisdom realizing the emptiness of inherent existence, we will be able to eradicate obscurations from our mind forever and enjoy the sky-like spaciousness of a purified mind. ~Thubten Chodron

Jendhamuni at Kiryvongsa Bopharam Pagoda on August 8, 2020.

A moment of patience in a moment of anger prevents a thousand moments of regret. ~ Ali Ibn Abi Talib

Sometimes people are beautiful.
Not in looks.
Not in what they say.
Just in what they are.

~ Markus Zusak

Variegated Rose. Photo credit: Randy Neufeldt

When you are content to be simply yourself and don’t compare or compete, everyone will respect you. ― Lao Tzu

Jendhamuni in Washington, D.C.

Be a reflection of what you’d like to see in others. If you want love, give love, if you want honesty, give honesty, if you want respect, give respect. You get in return, what you give. ~Anonymous

Ananda and Kali at the Japanese Pagoda