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The Buddha said this: "The object of your practice should…

“The Buddha said this: "The object of your practice should first of all be yourself. Your love for the other, your ability to love another person, depends on your ability to love yourself." If you are not able to take care of yourself, if you are not able to accept yourself, how could you accept…” quote by Thích Nhất Hạnh
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““The Buddha said this: "The object of your practice should first of all be yourself. Your love for the other, your ability to love another person, depends on your ability to love yourself." If you are not able to take care of yourself, if you are not able to accept yourself, how could you accept another person and how could you love him or her?””

Thích Nhất Hạnh

About This Quote

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

Self‑care and self‑acceptance are prerequisites for genuine love toward others; without loving oneself, one cannot truly love another.

In simple terms: Love yourself first to love others.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate self‑compassion before seeking external love.

Themes

self‑love compassion relationships

Mood

reflective calm

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • therapy
  • personal growth
  • relationship counseling

Key Concepts

Buddhist mindfulness psychology empathy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you practice self‑acceptance daily?
  • What barriers stop you from loving yourself?
A Different Perspective

Self‑loving may be challenged by deep‑seated self‑criticism.

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