I started my weblog with some examples of things that I do to become happier and more grateful. I want to inspire you and show you that the journey to a better life starts with changing small things. For example, reading inspiring articles and books are important if you want to change your life. In daily life we are mostly too busy, so even if we make time to read something, after a few days we don’t remember what we have read. So try to be in the moment and read with your full attention. In this way you gain more knowledge and you keep learning.
One of the books I recommend you is ‘The Art of Happines’ from the Dalai Lama and Howard C. Cutler. In this book the Dalai Lama offers his practical wisdom and advice on how we can overcome everyday human problems and how we can achieve lasting happiness. East and west are the opposite of each other. This book combines the eastern spiritual tradition of the Dalai Lama with the western perspective of Dr Howard C. Cutler. At the end of the book they speak together about anger and hatred. The book describes the following:
“In our day-to-day life experiences, tolerance and patience have great benefits. For instance, developing them will allow us to sustain and maintain our presence of mind. So if an individual possesses this capacity of tolerance and patience, then, even in spite of living in a very tense environment, which is very frantic and stressful, so long as the person has tolerance and patience, the person’s calmness and peace of mind will not be disturbed.”
It is an interesting example of the difference between east and west. For example, if you get harmed by someone and if you respond with patience and tolerance, people in the west see you as weak and passive. The Dalai Lama responds on this:
“Since patience or tolerance comes from an ability to remain firm and steadfast and not be overwhelmed by the adverse situations or conditions that one faces, one should not see tolerance or patience as a sign of weakness, or giving in, but rather as a sign of strength, coming from a deep ability to remain form. Responding to a trying situation with patience and tolerance rather than reacting with anger and hatred involves active restraint, which comes from a strong, self-disciplined mind.”
Cultural differences can be a problem in your life, when people don’t understand you correctly. Often there is miscommunication. But stay strong and be yourself, that is important. If you want to know more about this book, please order the book. It is an interesting and helpful book, but you need to make time to read it. There is a lot of information and you need time to reflect on yourself. The point of view of the Dalai Lama is inspiring. It will be useful in your journey through life.
Sources:
– The Art of Happiness The Dalai Lama & Howard C. Cutler
Jane Regina Sauer 