a world full of noise

Silence is essential. We need silence just as much as we need air,

 just as much as plants need light. If our minds are crowded

 with words and thoughts, there is no space for us.


Our need to be filled with one thing after another 

and another all the time is a collective disease 

of all human beings; let’s work to cure it.


Nonstop thinking plagues us.

 People do not seem to be able to live without the “Sound Track.” 

As soon as they’re alone or even with their coworkers

 or their loved ones right in front of them

—they try to fill up the tiniest bit of open mind space right away.


When confronted with suffering we must:
Recognize → Embrace→ Transform
Reminiscent of a type of cognitive reappraisal, 

our suffering must be identified, accepted and modified. 

When modified, we either, eliminate, 

change, or accept the suffering.

If we NEVER suffer, there is no basis or impetus 

for developing understanding and compassion. 

Suffering is very important. We have to learn to recognize

 and even embrace suffering as our awareness of it helps us grow

—the experience is imperative.

Goals are great. We can have wishes, hopes, and aim

—none of this is counter to the Buddha’s teaching. 

But we shouldn’t allow it to become something that prevents 

us from living happily right here, right now.

Find your quiet space. Your first priority should be to find your own

quiet space inside so you can learn more about yourself; 

broaden the understanding of your suffering.

~ Thich Nhat Hanh

excerpts from Silence : the power of quiet in a world full of noise