The wisdom that arises when we fully comprehend our interdependence is a force that can dismantle the walls that separate us from others. Compassion, or an altruistic outlook, can have the same effect. Wisdom and compassion can grow from the awareness that we are all absolutely equal in our wish for happiness and in our longing to be free of pain and suffering. Any being that has the capacity to feel pain merits our respect and our concern. Our recognition of this shared yearning can itself awaken a concern for the well-being of another. When we feel it fully as part of our very being, then we will naturally act to alleviate the pain of others and add to their happiness. As such, our vivid awareness that all living beings are perfectly equal in terms of their shared yearning for happiness can be fundamental in reorienting us as we live our interdependence.

17th Karmapa

from the book Interconnected: Embracing Life in Our Global Society

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Further quotes from the book Interconnected:

• The interdependence between us and the world
• The impulse to connect
• Cultivating a spirit of generosity
• Interdependent individuals
• A greater sense of possibility
• Inner conditions of interdependence
• Interdependence always works both ways
• Our innate ability to connect with others
• Thinking about the consequences of our collective actions
• Collective actions and attitudes
• Viewing others through the lens of interdependence
• Interdependence at work
• Our intimate dependence on the natural environment
• Extend yourself and connect
• The opportunity to love
• Noticing the collective effects of our individual actions
• The full vividness of direct contact
• Gradual change
• Time to act
• Recollecting kindness