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:

• Individualism or interdependence
• A genuine sense of affection
• The power of our senses
• Gratitude
• Self-discipline
• The full vividness of direct contact
• Inner conditions of interdependence
• You exist in connection with others
• Extend yourself and connect
• The opportunity to love
• Remaining indifferent to the suffering of animals
• Time to act
• Our life is like a vast net
• The air we breathe
• Extending gratitude in all directions
• The imagination to see the other as free and happy
• An important source of closeness and love
• Knowing more is not a substitute for feeling more
• Self-reliance