Whether or not we believe in reincarnation, we can each live a purposeful life if we spend our time doing something beneficial for ourselves and others. At the very least, we need to find a way to lead our lives joyfully. But if we do the opposite – what a shame! If we only create misery, we have wasted our lives. What’s more, all the trouble that others have gone through to feed and clothe us becomes pointless.

17th Karmapa

from the book The Future Is Now: Timely Advice for Creating a Better World

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

Further quotes from the book The Future Is Now:

• Reactions
• Our impact on the world
• Impermanence
• Why not support others
• The benefits of dharma
• Serving the common interest
• Dialogue
• Living harmoniously with others
• Using discernment
• Guidance on the own path
• How to decide
• Just for the fun of it
• Intelligence
• Lighten up
• Assessing a religion
• Friends
• Advice
• Coexisting in delicate balance
• Be your own guide