1,235 Quotes About Awakening

The key to warriorship and the first principle of Shambhala vision is not being afraid of who you are. Ultimately that is the definition of bravery: not being afraid of yourself. In the face of the world’s great problems, we can be heroic and kind at the same time. We must try to think how we can help this world. If we don’t help, nobody will. It is our turn to help the world. (p. 10)

Without a master you cannot possibly awaken to enlightenment, so follow a qualified master and accomplish whatever he commands. (p. 31)

What is the difference between buddhas and sentient beings?' It is nothing other than realizing or not realizing mind. The substance of the awakened state, of buddha, is present within you, but you don't recognize it.

Refusing to Give UpThe essence of human bravery is refusing to give up on anyone or anything. We can never say that we are simply falling to pieces or that anyone else is, and we can never say that about the world either. We can save the world from destruction, to begin with. That is why the Shambhala vision exists. It is a centuries-old idea: by serving the world we can save it.

The fact that you have the intention to work for others is important. Act on your wholesome intentions and altruistic impulses. If you have the thought of benefiting society, that is significant. Nurture and treasure that thought, and act on it as best you can. Doing so will certainly change you, and that in itself can be the start of the change you want to see in your world. – 17th Karmapa

Yeshe Tsogyal was a woman: there may be some people who believe that only men can attain enlightenment, but her life is proof of the opposite. In actual fact, the awakened state of mind is neither male nor female.

When receiving the teachings, it is important to have the correct attitude. It is not practicing the Dharma properly to listen with the intention of gaining material advantage or reputation. Neither should our goal be higher rebirth in the next life, nor should we be wishing only for our own liberation from samsara. These are all attitudes we should reject. Instead, let us listen to the teachings with the determined wish to attain the state of omniscience for the sake of all beings.

It is never too late.Even if you are going to die tomorrow,Keep yourself straight and clear and be a happy human being today.If you keep your situation happy day by day,you will eventually reach the greatest happiness of enlightenment. – Lama Yeshe

Day and night, look into your mind. If your stream of mind contains any nonvirtue, renounce it from the core of your heart and pursue virtue.