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Children Quote by Thich Nhat Hanh

“But it takes time to practice generosity. Sometimes one pill or a little rice could save the life of a child, but we do not think we have the time to help. The best use of our time is being generous and really being present with others. People of our time tend to overwork, even when they are not…” quote by Thich Nhat Hanh
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““But it takes time to practice generosity. Sometimes one pill or a little rice could save the life of a child, but we do not think we have the time to help. The best use of our time is being generous and really being present with others. People of our time tend to overwork, even when they are not in great need of money. We seem to take refuge in our work in order to avoid confronting our real sorrow and inner turmoil. We express our love and care for others by working hard, but if we do not have time for the people we love, if we cannot make ourselves available to them, how can we say that we love them?””

Thich Nhat Hanh

About This Quote

Source Lecture: Mindfulness and Generosity, Thich Nhat Hanh, 2005

True generosity requires time and presence; overwork masks deeper sorrow, preventing authentic caring for others.

In simple terms: Generosity needs time and genuine presence.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize meaningful time with loved ones.

Themes

generosity mindfulness overwork

Mood

calm reflective

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • volunteering
  • family meals
  • mindful breaks
  • therapy

Key Concepts

presence inner sorrow time management

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you create space for presence?
  • What habits reduce overwork?
A Different Perspective

Busy schedules can still dominate despite intentions.

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