Accomplished Quote by Stephen Batchelor
“Awakening is not a state but a process: an ethical way of life and commitment that enables human flourishing. As such, it is no longer the exclusive preserve of enlightened teachers or accomplished yogis. Likewise, nirvana-the stopping of craving-is not the goal of the path but its very source. For human flourishing first stirs in that clear, bright, empty space where neurotic self-centredness realizes that it has no ground at all to stand on. One is then freed to pour forth like sunlight.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Awakening to Insight, Stephen Batchelor, 2015
Awakening is a continual ethical practice that opens space for human flourishing, beyond exclusive spiritual authority, and reveals the emptiness of self‑centered cravings.
In simple terms: Awakening is an ongoing ethical practice that frees us from self‑centered cravings.
Key Takeaway
Practice ethical mindfulness to create space for flourishing.
Themes
mindfulness
ethics
human flourishing
spirituality
Mood
reflective
hopeful
calm
Type
philosophical
inspirational
practical
When to use this quote
- daily meditation
- conflict resolution
- leadership development
- educational curricula
Key Concepts
non‑duality
emptiness
compassion
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you integrate ethical mindfulness into everyday decisions?
- What habits reinforce self‑centered cravings?
A Different Perspective
The process can be slow and may clash with entrenched ego‑driven habits.
![“[Mindfulness] is not concerned with anything transcendent or divine. It serves as an antidote to theism, a cure for sentimental piety, a scalpel for excising the tumor of metaphysical belief. (130)” quote by Stephen Batchelor](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/04b/stephen-batchelor-5328_antidote_mindfulness-is-not-concerned-with-anythi_151409.jpg)
![“[U]nless oppressed groups stick together, and on alliances of self interest rather than do-goodism; nothing can be accomplished in the long run to dismantle the apparatus of oppression.” quote by Shulamith Firestone](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d7b/shulamith-firestone-12980_accomplished_u-nless-oppressed-groups-stick-together_5485.jpg)
