My earnest request is that you practice compassion, whether you believe in a religion or not. Through this practice, you will come to realize the value of compassion for your own peace of mind. The very atmosphere of your own life becomes happier, which promotes good health, perhaps even a longer life.

By developing a warm heart, we can also transform others. As we become nicer human beings, our neighbors, friends, parents, spouses, and children experience less anger. They will become more warm-hearted, compassionate, and harmonious. You will see the world around you change little by little. Even a small act of compassion grants meaning and purpose to our lives.

14th Dalai Lama

from the book How to Be Compassionate: A Handbook for Creating Inner Peace and a Happier World

translated by Jeffrey Hopkins


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