We can also experience a sense of closeness and connectedness to animals or to nature. I think the feelings of closeness we have towards the earth or to animals can be qualitatively the same as what we feel towards other human beings. In fact, it might actually be easier for us to feel close to animals or nature, precisely because we have made human relationships so complicated. Like human babies, animals are genuinely straightforward and authentic. Animals do not play the manipulative games that adult human beings have become so adept at playing with one another. They do not engage in that sort of pretense. We can train ourselves to shake the habits of deception and manipulation that creep into our human relationships, but this will take a conscious and concerted effort. With animals, we can experience that naturally, right now. For many people, their relationship to a pet can serve as an important source of closeness and love.

17th Karmapa

from the book Interconnected: Embracing Life in Our Global Society

Read a random quote or see all quotes by the 17th Karmapa.

Further quotes from the book Interconnected:

• We hold nothing back
• The power of our senses
• Delight in positive thoughts
• Opening up to the view of interconnectedness
• Remaining indifferent to the suffering of animals
• Self-discipline
• You exist in connection with others
• The ability to experience genuine closeness
• Dismantling the walls that separate us
• Being an interdependent individual
• Individualism or interdependence
• The air we breathe
• Naturalness
• The deeper common ground all living being share
• Everything and everyone is benefiting you
• The imagination to see the other as free and happy
• The interdependence between us and the world
• The impulse to connect
• Cultivating a spirit of generosity
• Interdependent individuals