Pema Chodron Essence Quotations

Nothing in its essence is one way or the other.

Everything is fresh, the essence of realization.

The essence of generosity is letting go. Pain is always a sign that we are holding on to something - usually ourselves.

The essence of bravery is being without self-deception.

The essence of our whole path is in that place of discomfort, and what do we do with it?

Lean into the sharp points and fully experience them. The essence of bravery is being without self-deception. Wisdom is inherent in (understanding) emotions.

Times are difficult globally; awakening is no longer a luxury or an ideal. It’s becoming critical. We don’t need to add more depression, more discouragement, or more anger to what’s already here. It’s becoming essential that we learn how to relate sanely with difficult times. The earth seems to be beseeching us to connect with joy and discover our innermost essence. This is the best way that we can benefit others.

We spend all our energy and waste our lives trying to re-create these zones of safety, which are always falling apart. That's the essence of samsara - the cycle of suffering that comes from continuing to seek happiness in all the wrong places.