One cannot always be kind to
others if one is not kind to oneself. We all have a strong survival
instinct, and our own survival as well as the survival of our 'kin',
our close relatives like wife, children, parents, siblings, etc., are
naturally our first priority. In fact, some believe that the word
'kind' is derived from 'kin', because kindness is how we normally treat
In this section we venture to
show how you can be kind to yourself so that you are in a position to
be kind to others and the environment, on which we all depend.
We cannot do better than
quote some practical advice from Gautam Buddha for leading a
that you are just a visitor here, a traveler passing through. your stay
is but short and the moment of your departure unknown. (Accept your
craft that provides
your needs is a blessing None can live without toil and a indeed. But
if you toil without rest, fatigue and weariness will overtake you, and
you will denied the joy that comes from labour's end.
Speak quietly and
kindly and be not forward with either opinions or advice. If you talk
much, this will make you deaf to what others say, and you should know
that there are few so wise that they cannot learn from others.
Be near when help
is needed, but far when praise and thanks are being offered.
Take small account
of might, wealth and fame, for they soon pass and are forgotten.
Instead, nurture love within you and and strive to be a friend to all.
Truly, compassion is a balm for many wounds.
when you find it, and while being mindful of your duties, set time
aside, to be alone with yourself. Cast
off pretense and self-deception and see yourself as you really are.
appearances, no one is really evil. They are led astray by ignorance.
If you ponder this truth always you will offer more light, rather then
blame and condemnation.
You, no less than
all beings have Buddha Nature within. Your essential Mind is pure.
Therefore, when defilements cause you to stumble and fall, let not
remorse nor dark foreboding cast you down. Be of good cheer and with
this understanding, summon strength and walk on.
like a lamp and wisdom makes the flame burn bright. Carry this lamp
always and in good time the darkness will yield and you will abide in
Have Faith in