Silence

We can be happy right now. We can have peace and joy in this very moment. Even if we have been restless our whole life and we have only two minutes left before we die, in that time we can stop our thoughts, take mindful breaths, and find stillness and peace. But why wait until we’re on our deathbed to become present and treasure the miracle of being alive?

These are the two dimensions of solitude, and they are both important. The first is to be alone physically. The second is to be able to be yourself and stay centered even in the midst of a group.

“Don’t worry, I am right here at home; I will take care of this feeling.”

With the act of breathing in mindfully,
you go inside. Your body is breathing;
and your body is your home.
In each breath, you can come
home to yourself.

You’re aware of what’s happening around you, but you also stay fully present within yourself; you don’t lose yourself to the surrounding conditions. That is real solitude.

Realize that silence comes from
your heart and not from the
absence of talk.

If you want to create a more collegial, harmonious atmosphere in your workplace or community, don’t start by trying to change other people. Your first priority should be to find your own quiet space inside so you can learn more about yourself.

We might believe that we aren’t causing any harm if we’re just thinking something, but the reality is that the thoughts going through our mind also go out into the world. Just as a candle radiates light, heat, and scent, our thinking manifests itself in various ways, including in our speech and our actions.

Not only do we choose not to drink alcohol or eat meat, we also do our best to talk and to think as little as possible while we are eating, drinking, washing dishes, or doing any other activity.

The practice of mindfulness is
very simple.

You stop, you breathe, and you still your mind.
You come home to yourself so
that you can enjoy the here and
now in every moment.

All the wonders of life are already here. They’re calling you. If you can listen to them, you will be able to stop running. What you need, what we all need, is silence. Stop the noise in your mind in order for the wondrous sounds of life to be heard. Then you can begin to live your life authentically and deeply.