Education Quote by Zenju Earthlyn Manuel
““...it was difficult for me to trust in the medicinal teaching that we must recognize friction and the not-so-good circumstances in life as being life, and that this life is perfect. It was hard to trust, swallow, and keep down this medicine, especially in conjunction with the hatred I had experienced and internalized for most of my life. I gagged on this teaching of the perfect life, as I have seen many others do. It is perfect because it is imperfect.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Way of the Heart, Zenju Earthlyn Manuel, 2018
The teaching says life’s imperfections are essential, and accepting them is the medicine for inner peace, despite resistance from past hatred.
In simple terms: Life’s flaws are part of its perfection; accept them.
Embrace imperfection as healing.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal trauma recovery
- daily mindfulness practice
- conflict resolution
- self‑compassion
- spiritual counseling
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you notice the “medicine” of imperfection in daily life?
- What past hurts block your acceptance?
It may be hard to truly trust this view when suffering feels overwhelming.