Brain Quote by Matthieu Ricard
“Mind training is based on the idea that two opposite mental factors cannot happen at the same time. You could go from love to hate. But you cannot, at the same time - toward the same object, the same person - want to harm and want to do good.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Art of Happiness, 1998
Contrasting mental states cannot coexist toward the same target; you must choose one direction of feeling.
In simple terms: Opposite feelings can't exist together toward one thing.
Key Takeaway
Choose one emotional stance at a time.
Themes
psychology
mindfulness
ethics
emotions
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- relationship counseling
- personal growth
- conflict resolution
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
dualism
mental conflict
choice
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you resolve conflicting emotions toward a person?
- Can you hold compassion while acknowledging resentment?
A Different Perspective
Human beings often experience mixed feelings toward complex subjects, making pure opposition rare.
![“When you see those in healthcare who don't get this burn-out, they are very motherly, fatherly, or loving and attentive with the patients. [These] wonderful caretakers, doctors, and nurses don't get as much burn-out as people who are more defensive of the feelings and suffering of others.” quote by Matthieu Ricard](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/aaa/matthieu-ricard-4004_burn-out_when-you-see-those-in-healthcare-who-don_221267.jpg)
