Our interdependent lives are shaped not only by material conditions but also by our emotional states, by the strength of inner qualities like patience, love, or wisdom, and by the beliefs and perceptions that influence our decisions — in short the whole suite of cognitive and affective forces at work within us. When I speak of the inner world, I do not have in mind an inner world that is totally distinct from the outer world. However, between our outer and inner conditions, I would argue that these inner conditions have more influence in shaping our world than the outer. This is because our inner world is constantly shaping the way we perceive and respond to the circumstances we find ourselves in. How do external situations appear in your mind? Is your mind disturbed? Do you feel happy? Your inner world has a powerful role in determining how you experience your external conditions and respond to them. There are people whose external conditions appear to be fine or even great, yet they may be holding sadness and experiencing a great deal of darkness within. Conversely, some who live in seemingly abject circumstances may experience contentment and joy.

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:

• Inner freedom is key
• His Loneliness
• Enthusiastically benefiting whomever we come in contact with
• Extending gratitude in all directions
• Limitless aspirations
• When we ignore our interdependence
• A Vast and Complex Web of Causality
• Our closest and most reliable allies
• The workings of interdependence
• An important source of closeness and love
• Webs of interdependence
• Enjoying the goodness of what you are doing
• Bringing about real change in the world
• Experiencing connection rather than isolation
• Touching the core of our equality
• Acting against self-serving impulses
• We hold nothing back
• A genuine sense of affection
• The power of our senses
• Delight in positive thoughts