How Can I Help?: Stories and Reflections on Service
The chapters of this book follow the stages of spiritual work as I see and have experienced them. This is, fundamentally, the journey from the outermost layers of our consciousness, through the obstructions, into our innermost core. Chapter 1 encourages us to accept our flawed human nature and to honor our spiritual longing. Chapter 2 reinforces ou
... See moreEva Pierrakos • The Undefended Self: Living the Pathwork
That’s why listening deeply to our own suffering is crucial. Then compassion will arise in us and we will suffer less and be able to help others more.
Thich Nhat Hanh • Love Letter to the Earth
How bodhicitta works is very simple. When we look outward and see how much all other beings are suffering—even though they want to be happy just as much as we do—then our care for our small, individual self naturally transforms into care for a much bigger “self.” We grow from having self-care to universal care. Right away our own suffering becomes
... See moreDzigar Kongtrul • The Intelligent Heart: A Guide to the Compassionate Life
When we shift our attention to the reality around us, to our spouse, our car, the service station attendant, we see countless opportunities to care for others. But those who are most preoccupied with themselves suffer the most. They also fail to experience the satisfaction of attending to the needs of another.