First, we must see that our negative actions arise due to…
““First, we must see that our negative actions arise due to prejudice and erroneous judgments. The discrimination that labels some as 'friends' and others as 'enemies' must be perceived as the root of our problems. We need to see that we label people and things in terms of our own desires, our own wishes. These wishes are transitory. The labeled objects are, themselves, impermanent. Such labeling is therefore very confused and false, yet it persists, and we continue to create suffering for ourselves. To avoid this, we need to develop equanimity for all beings suffering in samsara, tossed to and fro by their fleeting delusions, just like ourselves.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote argues that suffering stems from labeling based on personal desires and judgments, which are impermanent and false, and calls for universal equanimity to alleviate this suffering.
In simple terms: Suffering comes from false labels; practice equanimity.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate non‑judgmental compassion for all beings.
Themes
compassion
impermanence
non‑attachment
mindfulness
Mood
reflective
calm
Type
philosophical
spiritual
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- conflict resolution
- mental health practice
- spiritual meditation
Key Concepts
Buddhist philosophy
psychology of perception
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you notice when you are labeling others?
- What practices help sustain equanimity?
A Different Perspective
Labeling can be useful for practical decisions, but over‑identification creates bias.