This is a very encouraging teaching because it says that the source of wisdom is whatever is going to happen to us today. The source of wisdom is whatever is happening to us right at this very instant.
-Pema Chodron
When do you learn? We are always learning, but to be conscious of this is the trick to learning in the right direction. This is how we grow most effectively.
We must not say that every mistake is a foolish one.
-Cicero
How do you learn from mistakes? The only way to make use of mistakes is to properly reflect on them, learn and then act differently. If you seem to be plagued by making the same mistake again, and again it is likely not the mistake itself that is the problem. It may be a lack of honest reflection and appropriate action.
In reality, when you feel depressed, lonely, betrayed, or any unwanted feelings, this is an important moment on the spiritual path. This is when real transformation can take place.
-Pema Chodron
How do you describe and respond to “negative” emotions? Look at pain as a teacher, not a bully.
Dig within yourself. There lies the source of good; a source whose waters will forever well up, if you but forever dig.
-Marcus Aurelius
How do you look inward on a daily basis? Are you constantly consuming food, sights, and sounds without ever questioning if they’re good for you? To dig within is to practice […]
All great deeds and all great thoughts have a ridiculous beginning.
-Albert Camus
Do you dream too big? No, you don’t. If your vision doesn’t seem ridiculous, it’s too modest.
He who tries to travel two roads at once will arrive nowhere.
– Hsun Tzu
How are you decisive? Choosing one path inherently means that you are not taking many others. This is a reason to celebrate because this focus can be your freedom from distraction. Choosing to fully commit to a person, an idea or an action is the path to the greatest growth and happiness. You cannot be two places at once, embrace the moment and travel the road on which you currently stand as the person you currently are.
We think that by protecting ourselves from suffering we are being kind to ourselves. The truth is we only become more fearful, more hardened, and more alienated.
-Pema Chodron
How is your guard up? Suffering is a natural part of life. As such, walking alongside it while cultivating an understanding is more beneficial than simply ignoring it. You cannot learn from a teacher if you close your ears and eyes. Suffering can be meaningful if we do not protect ourselves from it, but instead, see it as a teacher.
Without giving up hope- that there’s somewhere better to be, that there’s someone better to be-we will never relax with where we are and who we are.
– Pema Chodron
Do you feel that the grass is always greener on the other side? You can only become who you envision by being who you are right now.
Learning should never cease.
– Hsun Tzu
What did you learn this week? How will you apply the knowledge next week? Learning and living are synonymous. Learning consciously and applying deliberately can help you flourish.
The Pocket Philosopher 