These teachings may be simple, but they’re profound.
1) Awaken to Life!
Mindfulness- being completely present to the life you’re living and what you’re doing- is something that can’t be understated. Expanding your awareness changes every aspect of your life, in every way. It really is as simple as that. The more you do, the more you’ll discover your own unique peace and joy- and the more you’ll be able to let go of personal struggles.
2) Change Yourself, Change the World
Everything we do, even the smallest act, is noticed by those around us. Friends, family, coworkers, all imitate each other subconsciously and repeat these acts. In this way, we’re all interconnected. Because of this, by helping yourself you can create waves of influence in the world, expanding to each person you meet. You don’t need money or power…you just need to find yourself.
3) Find Compassion
In Buddhism, it’s taught that compassion is a trait of a deeply developed human being. It’s easy to look at others and have contempt for their actions, or be upset with their life choices. After all, not everyone is perfect, and certainly not everyone is going to do thing how we’d like them to be done. But compassion means seeing beyond that and understanding people are on their own path- whether we like it or not. Moreover, most people are motivated by urges of past pain that they are not even aware of, and are trying to alleviate it. This kind of attitude creates peace within, and heal wounds that you may be hiding from yourself. Not only that, but it’s a powerful way to connect with others.
4) You Get what You Give
Giving isn’t just about the gifts we buy others at certain times of the year; it’s also about how we impact others lives. Compassion, presence, and love are all gifts that cost nothing, and will be rewarded by everyone around us. Life is a balance between giving and receiving.
5) Remove the 3 Obstacles to Happiness
In Buddhism, it’s taught that there are 3 main obstacles to finding happiness:
- Greed
- Hatred
- Delusion
Every human being suffers from these 3 vices, and as a result humanity as a whole struggles to move forward. The more you work to let go of them, the more you’ll be able to find peace and influence the world for the better.
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