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Many people, even in this country, have material problems…

“Many people, even in this country, have material problems because they are concerned for only themselves. Even though society offers many good situations, they are still in the preta realm. I think so, isn’t it? You are living in America but you’re still living in the preta realm—of the three…” quote by Lama Thubten Yeshe
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““Many people, even in this country, have material problems because they are concerned for only themselves. Even though society offers many good situations, they are still in the preta realm. I think so, isn’t it? You are living in America but you’re still living in the preta realm—of the three lower realms, the hungry ghost realm; you are still living in the hungry ghost realm.””

Lama Thubten Yeshe

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Many people, even in prosperous societies, are trapped in the “preta” or hungry‑ghost realm, consumed by selfish concerns and material scarcity.

In simple terms: Selfishness keeps people in a state of lack.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate generosity to escape scarcity mindset.

Themes

spirituality materialism selfishness

Mood

thoughtful calm

Type

teaching reflective

When to use this quote

  • consumerism
  • personal finance
  • community service

Key Concepts

Buddhist philosophy psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can one shift from scarcity to abundance?
A Different Perspective

Overgeneralizes all societies.

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