Poison Quote by Pema Chödrön
““In postmeditation, when the poisons of passion, aggression, or ignorance arise, the instruction is to drop the story line. Instead of acting out or repressing, we use the poison as an opportunity to feel our heart, to feel the wound, and to connect with others who suffer in the same way. We can use the poison as an opportunity to contact bodhichitta. In this way, the poison already is the medicine. When we don’t act out and we don’t repress, our passion, our aggression, and our ignorance become our wealth. We don’t have to transform anything. Simply letting go of the story line is what it takes, which is not all that easy. That light touch of acknowledging what we’re thinking and letting it go is the key to touching in with the wealth of bodhichitta. With all the messy stuff, no matter how messy it is, just start where you are—not tomorrow, not later, not yesterday when you were feeling better—but now. Start now, just as you are.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Places That Scare You, 2008
When negative emotions arise, view them as opportunities for compassion and connection rather than suppressing them.
In simple terms: Use tough feelings to grow compassion.
Observe and release mental stories.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- Meditation
- conflict resolution
- personal healing
- supporting others
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What stories do you tell yourself?
- How can pain become a teacher?
Requires deep self‑awareness.