Kindness to Self

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 our kin.

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 happy life:

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Remember always 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 impermanence)

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.

Treasure silence 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.

Despite all 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.

Faith is 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 the Light.

Dhammavadaka

Have Faith in Yourself !