Abuse Quote by Sharon Salzberg
““Sometimes people in abusive situations think they’re responsible for the other person’s happiness or that they’re going to fix them and make them feel better. The practice of equanimity teaches that it’s not all up to you to make someone else happy.””
About This Quote
Source Book: “Lovingkindness: The Revolutionary Art of Happiness” by Sharon Salzberg, 1995
We often feel responsible for others’ happiness, but equanimity reminds us that each person’s joy is their own duty.
In simple terms: You’re not fully responsible for others’ happiness.
Practice compassion without over‑identifying.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- relationships
- therapy
- family
- community
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you set emotional limits?
- When does caring become codependency?
Over‑responsibility can lead to burnout; balance is needed.