Work out your own salvation. Do not depend on others.

Compassion is not just about being kind to others. It's about being kind to ourselves as well.

The essence of the spiritual journey is the uncovering of what is always already present.

The path of awakening is not about becoming who we think we should be, but about unbecoming who we are not.

When you note pain, you should not dwell on the thought, "I feel pain." Simply recognize the presence of pain.

Every step on the path must be with the understanding of anicca - impermanence. This is the essence of the teaching.

In our struggle for freedom, truth is the only weapon we possess.

Meditation is not about stopping thoughts, but recognizing that we are not our thoughts.

Every moment is a fresh beginning. Every breath is a new chance.

When you practice gratefulness, there is a sense of respect toward others.

Zen teaches nothing; it merely enables us to wake up and become aware. It does not teach, it points.

Every being has the potential of becoming a Buddha. Our true nature is Buddha nature.

What we learn about the world is colored by the way we approach it.

The entire path is a path of self-responsibility. Nobody else can walk it for you.

Those who understand interdependent origination understand suffering, its origin, its cessation, and the path.

The nature of all things is like a magical illusion, a mirage, a dream, a reflection of the moon in water.

The most difficult times for many of us are the ones we give ourselves.

Understanding at the intellectual level is not enough. There must be experience at the actual level.

The obstacle is the path.

The essence of all phenomena is empty and clear like space. The nature of mind is awareness-emptiness like the sun and sky.

Every morning we are born again. What we do today is what matters most.

No valid plans for the future can be made by those who have no capacity for living now.

When we rest in awareness, we discover a peace that is always present, regardless of circumstances.

Our own life has to be our message.

To what shall I compare this life? It is like a boat that left at dawn, leaving no trace.

When you talk, you are only repeating what you already know. But if you listen, you may learn something new.

Judge your success by what you had to give up in order to get it.

The Four Noble Truths are not mere doctrinal propositions but a framework for understanding and transforming our lives.

Knowledge must be stabilized by meditation. Without meditation, knowledge is like a child in battle.

Look at situations from all angles, and you will become more open.

Start from where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.

If your mind is empty, it is always ready for anything; it is open to everything.

When you generate negativity, you are the first victim of your negativity.