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Mindfulness at the Heart of Life

Thich Nhat Hanh · August 1, 2003 · Plum Village, France
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In a world often marked by noise and turmoil, the search for an oasis of peace and joy can seem like an insurmountable challenge. Yet, the key to this quest lies in the ancient practices of mindfulness, a path to inner peace that everyone can cultivate at every moment. This journey begins with a simple sound, that of the bell, inviting us to return to ourselves, to dispel anxiety, and to embrace a state of serenity. This return to the present moment opens us to the beauty of the Dharma, awakening compassion and universal kindness within us.

At the core of our being lies an unlimited potential for well-being, fueled by the practice of mindfulness in our daily actions. Whether through conscious breathing, walking meditation, or silent appreciation of life, each moment becomes an opportunity to free ourselves from pain, anger, and incessant thoughts, to welcome deep and authentic joy. The teachings show us how it is possible to transform our emotional seeds, opting for thoughts and feelings that nourish our well-being. The practice of silence, so cherished at Plum Village, proves to be not only a refuge but a powerful vector of happiness, offering an entryway to non-thinking, a state where fullness and peace reign supreme.

Children, in their innocence and ability to fully live in the present moment, are models of this practice. They remind us that happiness resides in simple moments, accessible to all as soon as we choose to stop, listen, and fully feel the life that unfolds with each breath. By cultivating mindfulness and silence, we discover that true happiness is not a distant quest but a tangible reality, nestled in the heart of each present moment.

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