When we shed the light of mindfulness on our habitual thought patterns, we see them clearly. Recognizing our habits and smiling to them is the practice of appropriate mental attention, which helps us create new and more beneficial neural pathways.

We can also call it inclusiveness or nondiscrimination. In a deep relationship, there’s no longer a boundary between you and the other person.

To love is, first of all, to accept ourselves as we actually are.

Offer only the things that can make the other person happy.

If you can learn from your mistakes, then you have already transformed garbage into flowers.

The notions and ideas we have about happiness can entrap us. We forget that they are just notions and ideas. Our idea of happiness may be the very thing that’s preventing us from being happy. When we’re caught in a belief that happiness should take a particular form, we fail to see the opportunities for joy that are right in front of us.

It’s important that loving another person doesn’t take priority over listening to yourself and knowing what you need.

Live in a way that encourages deep happiness in yourself and others. You can vow to bring joy to one person in the morning and to help relieve the suffering of one person in the afternoon. Ask yourself, “Who can I make smile this morning?” This is the art of creating happiness.

The roots of a lasting relationship are mindfulness, deep listening and loving speech, and a strong community to support you.