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Sounding the Bell of Love and Happiness in the Workplace
Turning toward the present moment, we practice breathing and mindful steps so that we can “arrive, arrive home” to life right here and now. Each in-breath reminds us that body and mind are still alive; each out-breath is a smile to the life around us. Walking meditation helps us to let go of the past and the future, to touch the wonders of life like the eyes of a child, the blue sky, and white clouds. During a meal, we also need to dwell in the present moment, to see that each piece of tofu or carrot is the condensation of the whole universe, nourishing our mindfulness and gratitude.
In the world of business, sustainable success comes from cultivating love and three spiritual virtues:
- Virtue of letting go – cutting off hatred, sorrow, and craving
- Virtue of insight (Prajñā) – the wisdom to see deeply into the roots of suffering
- Virtue of loving-kindness – the capacity to forgive and to love
The story of Frederick–Claudia shows that a business can become a “dictator” if it only chases after profit, while the story of the lonely elder Anathapindika demonstrates success based on love—for family, community, and the sangha. A company culture inspired by the spirit of Buddhism puts compassion, mindfulness, and deep listening at the forefront to protect life, the environment, and to nourish happiness for both employees and leaders.