People may seek satisfaction by exploiting the environment, they may seek social justice, they may seek social equality, and indeed they may enjoy some degree of success in these endeavors, but ultimately they will fail to truly bring conflict to an end. - Master Sheng Yen

Freedom is not life without obstacles; rather it is the ability to be calm and stable in body and mind when confronting obstacles. - Master Sheng Yen

Gentleness is a mild heart and a flexible attitude toward others and in dealing with situations. It is not a sign of weakness. - Master Sheng Yen

Someone we like or dislike, happy or difficult situation – treat everything with calmness and equanimity – this is “treating right and wrong with gentleness.” - Master Sheng Yen

Unpleasant encounters, unhappy situations - we must mend our own minds, not other people’s minds. - Master Sheng Yen

Take care of your mind, no matter the situation. Keep inner mind calm and peaceful. This is spiritual health; this is protecting the spiritual environment. - Master Sheng Yen

Anger may stem from the body, perception, or many other causes. It's not necessarily an indication of poor cultivation. If you can look within, dissolve your anger, you will harm neither yourself nor others. - Master Sheng Yen

If other people's praise or criticism affects you–whether it makes you happy or sad–it means that you have neglected to take care of mind and spirit. - Master Sheng Yen

The mind is our teacher. We are in The Pure Land when our mind is unified with whatever we do, wherever we are, at all times, in all places. - Master Sheng Yen

Let others be your mirror. If your words or actions discomfit, shock, or cause concern to others, immediately reflect on your behavior, express remorse, and improve. - Master Sheng Yen

The mind is agitated by either the environment or the body. Be watchful of body and mind to maintain a peaceful and stable mind. - Master Sheng Yen

Become aware of your breathing the moment you feel agitated or emotional. Experience and feel your breath and you will soon become calm. - Master Sheng Yen

Even if you're right, don't be harsh to others. Express correct views gently. - Master Sheng Yen

Use ordinary mind to face unordinary circumstances. - Master Sheng Yen

Cherish one's life and always cheer oneself on. - Master Sheng Yen

Doing good is without condition. - Master Sheng Yen

The wealthy shall cultivate blessings; the poor shall be diligent. Any household that follows these principles will find itself blessed with great wealth and great characters. - Master Sheng Yen

There are four conditions for a good life: born at the right place, blessed at old age, maintaining a healthy mind in sickness, and death at the right time. This would truly be a life of bliss. - Master Sheng Yen

One who is paranoid is prone to be deceived, one who is understanding is bound to find a helping hand. For richer or poorer, don't hesitate to give, for giving is the key to benefiting oneself, others, and all setient beings. - Master Sheng Yen

It is difficult to find a kindred soul, but don't let that stop you from befriending others. Minimize worries and vexations, and your blessings will grow while obstructions lessen. - Master Sheng Yen

Fame and wealth obtained overnight are difficult to keep. Be sensible and realistic. - Master Sheng Yen

Always keep in mind the spirit of humility, respect, tolerance, and generosity; always act with the principles of honesty, civility, thrift and diligence. - Master Sheng Yen

Rather than plunder another's bowl of rice, plow your own rice field; if you do not have a rice field of your own, then help someone with his. - Master Sheng Yen

Boundless blessings are found in upholding and reciting often the name of Guan Yin, Bodhisattva Avalokitesavara. - Master Sheng Yen

Cultivating one's blessings is crucial to maintain one's wealth. Where blessings abound, wealth usually follows. - Master Sheng Yen