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Why Die Because of an Impermanent Emotion

Thich Nhat Hanh · July 16, 2008 · New Hamlet, Plum Village, France

The details of this discussion highlight that the most precious gift to offer is our own presence, generated with calm, freshness, solidity, and kindness. Thich Nhat Hanh compares presence to a fresh and beautiful flower and emphasizes the practice of mindful breathing, walking, and sitting to regain one’s freshness after work. It is essential to breathe consciously before returning home to offer a pleasant presence to one’s family and to be fully present to love. An example illustrates how absence affects relationships: a wealthy man is physically present but mentally absent for his family, and his son suffers from this absence. Practicing mindfulness allows the reunification of body and mind to offer an authentic and loving presence. Recognizing the presence of others with mantras like “Darling, I know you are there and I am very happy” creates miracles and expresses love. Use these mantras even from a distance to be fully present and truly love.

Previous Talk July 16, 2008

1h 1m