Some short pieces I’ve written recently have unexpectedly found quite a following.
It’s telling, really — in times like these, people are hungry for a little lightness and peace.
So tonight, I’ll skip the long essay. Instead, let me share a few Buddhist verses and wisdom sayings (偈语, jīyǔ) that I personally treasure.
Nothing too profound. But read them, and your heart will ease.
For you, whom I care about.
In this floating world, we come alone and go alone, are born alone and die alone. Joy and suffering are ours to bear — no one can bear them in our place. — Sutra of Immeasurable Life
A single thought of folly, and wisdom (prajña) is extinguished. A single thought of insight, and wisdom springs to life. — Platform Sutra of the Sixth Patriarch
Life seldom goes as we wish — in all things, be content if half turns out well. — Lingyin Temple, Hangzhou
When the mind is still, it does not follow the flowing stream. When the heart is at rest, it can only smile at the hurrying clouds. — Thousand Buddha Temple, Mount Emei
It is not the wind that moves. It is not the banner that moves. It is the mind of the beholder that moves. — Platform Sutra
Do not dismiss a small act of kindness as too slight to matter. A single drop, though small, will in time fill a great vessel. — Chu Yao Sutra
One who calls himself foolish shows real discernment. One who calls himself wise is the greatest fool of all. — Chu Yao Sutra
Better to befriend a wise person who unsettles you than to keep company with a foolish friend who merely comforts you. — Buddhacarita
Do not scatter yourself across many devotions. Turn your whole heart to one path. — Medicine Buddha Sutra
Those who seek the highest awakening (bodhi) must never look down upon the beginner. — Platform Sutra
When things arise, let your heart respond. When things pass, let your heart be still. — Buddhist Wisdom
🙏🙏🙏