In the heart of Tokyo, lived a young graphic designer named Emiko. Emiko was passionate about her work, often spending long hours at her studio, immersed in creating vibrant designs and captivating visuals. However, her relentless dedication came at a cost—she struggled with overwhelming sleepiness that crept up on her during the day, threatening to stifle her creativity and productivity.
Determined to overcome this challenge, Emiko embarked on a quest for a solution. She tried various methods, from endless cups of coffee to power naps, but nothing seemed to work. That was until she stumbled upon an old book at a quaint bookstore in the narrow lanes of Shimokitazawa. The book was about the ancient Japanese art of balancing energy, or “Ki,” and it piqued her interest.
As she delved into the book, Emiko discovered three invaluable lessons that would eventually help her conquer her sleepiness and harness her full potential.
First Lesson: The Harmony of Diet
The first lesson focused on the harmony of diet. The book explained how certain foods could energize the body, while others could induce lethargy. Emiko learned about the importance of incorporating fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into her meals, while reducing her intake of processed foods and sugars. She also discovered the benefits of drinking green tea, rich in antioxidants and a natural source of caffeine, as a healthier alternative to coffee.
Inspired, Emiko revamped her diet. She started her day with a balanced breakfast, enjoyed energizing snacks like nuts and fruits, and drank green tea. This dietary shift brought a noticeable change in her energy levels, helping her stay alert and focused throughout the day.
Second Lesson: The Rhythm of Movement
The second lesson emphasized the rhythm of movement. The book highlighted how regular exercise could improve not just physical health but also mental alertness. It suggested incorporating gentle exercises, such as walking, yoga, or tai chi, to stimulate circulation and invigorate the body.
Taking this advice to heart, Emiko began starting her day with a morning walk in the nearby Yoyogi Park. She also enrolled in a yoga class, embracing the fluid movements and deep breathing techniques that helped clear her mind and energize her body. These changes in her routine helped dispel the cloud of sleepiness that used to hover over her.
Third Lesson: The Cycle of Rest
The final lesson was about the cycle of rest. The book taught Emiko the significance of respecting the body’s natural rhythms through consistent sleep patterns and rest. It stressed the importance of creating a restful environment, avoiding screens before bedtime, and establishing a calming pre-sleep routine.
Emiko took these teachings to heart, setting a fixed bedtime and wake-up time to regulate her sleep cycle. She transformed her bedroom into a sanctuary for rest, with soft lighting, comfortable bedding, and a ban on electronic devices an hour before sleep. These adjustments helped her achieve a deeper, more restorative sleep, banishing her daytime sleepiness.
Months passed, and the changes Emiko implemented in her life had a profound effect. She felt more energetic and alert than ever before, her creativity flourished, and her designs gained recognition for their vibrancy and vitality. Emiko’s story became an inspiration to many, a testament to the power of ancient wisdom in navigating the challenges of modern life.
In the bustling city of Osaka, there lived a young man named Takashi, who struggled with the constant distraction of sexual thoughts. Takashi’s mind was a whirlwind of images and fantasies that often hindered his ability to focus on his work, studies, and personal growth. He felt chained by his desires, unable to break free and live the life he truly wanted.
One day, in a moment of sheer desperation, Takashi decided to seek guidance. He remembered reading about a secluded monastery in the mountains of Nara, where monks practiced ancient meditation techniques said to cultivate discipline, focus, and inner peace. With nothing to lose, Takashi set out on a journey that would forever change the course of his life.
The monastery, nestled amidst towering cedars, was a haven of tranquility. Takashi was greeted by a monk named Sato, whose calm demeanor and piercing gaze seemed to see right through him. Takashi shared his struggles, and Sato listened intently before speaking.
First Lesson: Mindfulness and Awareness
Sato began by teaching Takashi the practice of mindfulness. “To overcome the distractions of the mind, one must first become fully aware of them,” Sato explained. “Observe your thoughts without judgment or engagement. Recognize them for what they are—mere thoughts—and let them pass like clouds in the sky.”
Takashi learned to sit in meditation, focusing on his breath, and watching his thoughts arise and dissipate without getting entangled in them. This practice was challenging at first, but with time, Takashi began to notice a shift. His mind became less cluttered, and the thoughts that once seemed overwhelming lost their grip on him.
Second Lesson: The Power of Purpose
Sato then introduced Takashi to the concept of having a clear purpose. “When your life is driven by a purpose greater than your desires, you gain the strength to overcome any distraction,” Sato told him. He encouraged Takashi to reflect on what truly mattered to him, what he wanted to achieve in life beyond the fleeting pleasures of the senses.
Takashi spent days contemplating this, eventually realizing that he wanted to help others, to make a difference in the world through his work and actions. This newfound purpose gave him a sense of direction and a reason to control his mind rather than letting it control him.
Third Lesson: The Discipline of Routine
Finally, Sato emphasized the importance of a disciplined routine. “A disciplined life is the foundation of a clear mind,” he said. Takashi was taught to rise with the sun, engage in physical exercise, eat a simple yet nourishing diet, and dedicate specific times for work, study, and meditation.
This structured lifestyle helped Takashi to regulate his energy and focus. The discipline he cultivated spilled over into all aspects of his life, including his control over his thoughts.
Months passed, and the time came for Takashi to return to Osaka. The lessons he learned and the practices he adopted at the monastery had transformed him. He no longer felt enslaved by his thoughts but rather in command of his mind. Takashi’s life took on a new depth and meaning, filled with productivity, satisfaction, and peace.
Years later, Takashi, now a successful entrepreneur and a mentor to many, would often share the lessons from his time at the monastery. He taught others how to live mindfully, with purpose and discipline, showing them that it was possible to overcome any form of mental distraction and live a life of true fulfillment.
In the heart of Kyoto, under the shadow of its ancient temples, lived a young student named Hiroki. Hiroki was in his final year at Kyoto University, deeply engrossed in his studies on traditional Japanese literature. However, he faced a formidable obstacle that threatened his academic success: his incessant struggle to stay awake while studying.
One particularly crisp autumn evening, as the maples began to don their fiery hues, Hiroki found himself dozing off yet again, his books sprawled open in front of him. In his dream, he wandered through a misty forest until he stumbled upon a quaint tea house, seemingly untouched by time. An old man with a gentle smile greeted him. This man was Kazuo, a renowned Zen master known for his wisdom and unconventional teaching methods.
Sensing Hiroki’s distress, Kazuo invited him to share a cup of green tea. As they sipped their tea amidst the serene backdrop of the forest, Kazuo shared three profound lessons to help Hiroki overcome his challenge.
First Lesson: The Practice of Mindfulness
Kazuo began, “To combat the drowsiness that besieges you, you must first embrace the practice of mindfulness. Be wholly present with your studies. Let each word you read or write be an action performed with full awareness, as if it were a sacred ritual.”
Hiroki listened intently, realizing he often read in a mechanical manner, his thoughts wandering to a thousand different places.
Second Lesson: The Power of Breaks
“Next,” Kazuo continued, “you must learn the power of breaks. Study not until your mind becomes foggy and your eyes heavy, but in intervals. After each period of focused study, take a short walk, practice some deep breathing, or engage in a quick meditation. These breaks will refresh your mind and body, making your study sessions more effective.”
Hiroki remembered his long hours of uninterrupted study, often pushing himself too hard, only to end up exhausted.
Third Lesson: The Harmony of Lifestyle
“Lastly,” the old master said, “the harmony of your lifestyle plays a crucial role. Pay attention to your diet, ensuring it is balanced and nourishing. Exercise regularly to keep your body and mind sharp. And most importantly, establish a consistent sleep schedule. A well-rested mind is the most potent weapon against the tendrils of sleep that seek to disrupt your studies.”
As the lessons sank in, Hiroki felt a sense of clarity and determination wash over him. He thanked Kazuo for his wisdom and, with a bow, found himself waking up from his dream.
Emboldened by the lessons from his dream, Hiroki began to implement the changes. He practiced mindfulness with each page he turned, finding joy in the learning process itself. He took regular breaks, often stepping out into the university’s lush gardens to clear his mind. His lifestyle underwent a transformation as well; he ate healthier, exercised daily, and fixed his sleeping schedule.
In the months that followed, Hiroki’s academic performance soared. Not only did he overcome his struggle with sleep, but he also found a deeper appreciation for his studies and a greater balance in his life. His final year at Kyoto University became his most successful and fulfilling.
Years later, Hiroki, now a respected professor of Japanese literature, would often tell his students about the dream that changed his life. He shared the lessons of mindfulness, the power of breaks, and the harmony of lifestyle, hoping to inspire them as Kazuo had inspired him. And so, the wisdom of the old Zen master lived on, guiding generations of students through their academic journeys and beyond.
In a small, bustling town nestled between rolling hills and verdant fields, there lived a young girl named Lily. With expressive, wide eyes and a voice as melodious as the morning birdsong, Lily had a dream: to sing on the grand stage of the town’s annual festival. Yet, despite her extraordinary talent, Lily was shackled by an overwhelming fear of performing in front of an audience.
Lily’s journey began on a crisp autumn morning when she met Mr. Kaito, an elderly and wise theatre director known for his patient guidance and successful plays. Mr. Kaito saw potential in Lily and decided to help her overcome her stage fright.
Lily’s first lesson was to understand her fear. Mr. Kaito explained, “Fear is like a shadow, Lily. It grows larger when you turn away from it. Face it, and you’ll see it for what it really is.” He encouraged her to perform in front of a mirror, then gradually in front of small groups of her friends, helping her realize that the anticipation of judgment was more daunting than the act of performing itself.
“Preparation breeds confidence,” Mr. Kaito told her as they began rigorous daily practices. He taught her breathing exercises to calm her nerves and had her rehearse her songs until they flowed as naturally as the river outside town. “When you know your material by heart, fear has less room to take hold,” he explained.
Mr. Kaito introduced Lily to the power of visualization. “Imagine yourself on stage, the lights, the audience, and see yourself performing confidently,” he instructed. Night after night, Lily practiced this technique, visualizing her success and the joy it brought her.
The day arrived for Lily to perform at a small local café, her first public performance outside the comfort of her immediate circle. Her heart raced as she stepped onto the makeshift stage. She closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and began to sing. With each note, her fear diminished, replaced by a growing confidence. The applause that followed her performance was warm and genuine, a balm to her frayed nerves and a beacon of encouragement.
Finally, the festival day arrived. The town square was filled with people, the air buzzing with excitement. Lily, now a different person from the girl who once trembled at the thought of performing, stepped onto the grand stage. As she sang, her voice resonant and clear, she realized she had not just overcome her fear; she had transformed it into a source of strength and inspiration.
As the last note of her song lingered in the air, the crowd erupted into cheers. Lily’s journey had not only led her to conquer her stage fright but also to inspire others to face their fears with courage and determination.
Lily’s story spread beyond the town, a testament to the power of perseverance, preparation, and the courage to face one’s fears head-on. She continued to sing, each performance a reminder of the journey she had undertaken and the mentor who had guided her every step of the way.
In a small village of Sri Lanka, lived a young man named Aravinda. Aravinda had a heart as wide as the ocean but was shackled by social anxiety, a silent storm that raged within, unseen by the eyes of others. His fear of being judged, of speaking out, made him a prisoner in his own world.
Aravinda worked at a quaint tea shop in the heart of Nuwara Eliya, a place where tourists and locals alike mingled, sharing stories over cups of Ceylon tea. Yet, despite the warmth of the shop, Aravinda remained on the outskirts, his voice barely a whisper even in the most necessary conversations.
One day, a wise old man named Mr. Perera entered the shop. He noticed Aravinda’s struggle and decided to help him conquer his storm. Mr. Perera was known in the village for his zen-like presence and understanding heart.
“Aravinda,” Mr. Perera began one quiet morning, “I see the battle you fight within. Would you let me guide you through it?”
Eager for a change, Aravinda nodded.
Mr. Perera’s first lesson was simple yet profound: “Breathe, Aravinda. Breathe deeply whenever the sea of anxiety tries to drown you. The breath is your anchor.”
Each day, before the tea shop buzzed to life, Mr. Perera taught Aravinda to focus on his breathing. Deep inhales and exhales became his shield against the waves of anxiety.
Next, Mr. Perera encouraged Aravinda to take small steps. “Today, greet one customer,” he suggested. “Tomorrow, two.”
To Aravinda, these tasks felt as daunting as climbing Adam’s Peak, but he trusted Mr. Perera. With each greeting, his confidence slowly bloomed, like the lotus flowers in the village pond.
Mr. Perera also shared stories of his own struggles and victories over anxiety, making Aravinda feel less alone in his fight. “We all have our battles, Aravinda. Sharing them, though scary, can lighten our load.”
Encouraged, Aravinda began sharing bits of his story with trusted friends and even a few customers. Their supportive responses were like rays of sunshine piercing his cloudy days.
The final lesson from Mr. Perera was about embracing discomfort. “To conquer anxiety, you must be willing to face it head-on. Speak, even if your voice shakes. Act, even if your body trembles.”
Aravinda took this to heart. He volunteered to lead a tea tasting session at the shop. The night before, anxiety stormed furiously, threatening to sweep him away. But he stood firm, breathing deeply, remembering Mr. Perera’s words, and envisioning the faces of those he had opened up to.
The day of the tasting, Aravinda’s voice did shake, and his hands trembled as he poured the tea. But as he spoke about the origins of each blend, his passion for tea illuminated his words, and slowly, the anxiety ebbed away, leaving in its wake a sense of accomplishment and a glimmer of confidence.
Aravinda’s journey wasn’t an easy one. There were days when the anxiety seemed invincible, but with each small victory, he reclaimed a piece of himself. His story spread throughout Kandy, inspiring others to embark on their own journeys of overcoming social anxiety.
In the end, Aravinda realized that the key to conquering his fears was not in avoiding them but in facing them with a steady breath, a willing heart, and the support of those around him. And in the cozy tea shop in Kandy, his voice found a new strength, echoing not just across the room, but through the lives of all those he touched.
Once upon a time, there was a young man named Ravi who lived in Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka. He was a talented software engineer who worked for a multinational company. He had a good salary, a nice apartment, and a lot of friends. He was also very handsome and charming, and he had no trouble attracting women.
However, Ravi was not happy. He was looking for true love, but he could not find it. He had dated many women, but none of them matched his expectations. He wanted someone who was smart, beautiful, kind, loyal, and faithful. He wanted someone who shared his interests and values. He wanted someone who would love him unconditionally.
One day, he met a woman named Priya who seemed to be everything he was looking for. She was a journalist who worked for a popular newspaper. She was intelligent, gorgeous, compassionate, honest, and devoted. She loved reading books, watching movies, and traveling to new places. She also had a keen interest in Buddhism and meditation.
Ravi fell in love with Priya at first sight. He asked her out on a date, and she agreed. They had a wonderful time together, and they felt a strong connection. Ravi was sure that Priya was the one for him. He decided to propose to her on their third date.
He bought a beautiful ring and booked a table at a fancy restaurant. He planned to surprise her with his proposal after dinner. He was nervous but excited. He hoped that Priya would say yes.
However, things did not go as he expected. When he arrived at the restaurant, he saw Priya sitting with another man. They were holding hands and laughing. Ravi felt a surge of anger and jealousy. He walked up to them and confronted them.
“Who is this?” he demanded.
“Ravi, this is Arjun. Arjun, this is Ravi.” Priya introduced them calmly.
“Arjun is my fiancé. We are getting married next month.”
Ravi was shocked and heartbroken. He could not believe what he heard.
“What? Fiancé? Married? But…but…we were dating! You said you liked me! You said you enjoyed spending time with me! How could you do this to me?” he shouted.
Priya looked at him with pity and sadness.
“Ravi, I’m sorry. I never meant to hurt you. But you misunderstood me. We were not dating. We were just friends.”
“Friends? Friends don’t kiss and hug each other like we did! Friends don’t say sweet things to each other like we did! Friends don’t make plans for the future like we did! You lied to me! You cheated on me! You played with my feelings!” he accused.
Priya shook her head.
“No, Ravi, I didn’t lie or cheat or play with you. I was honest with you from the beginning. I told you that I had someone in my life. I told you that I was not looking for anything serious. I told you that I just wanted to have some fun with you.”
Ravi felt his face turn red.
“You never told me any of that! You never mentioned Arjun! You never said you were engaged! You never said you were not interested in me!”
Priya sighed.
“Yes, I did, Ravi. You just didn’t listen. You only heard what you wanted to hear. You only saw what you wanted to see.”
Ravi felt his eyes fill with tears.
“How could you do this to me? How could you break my heart? How could you reject me like this?”
Priya reached out to touch his arm.
“Ravi, please calm down. Don’t make a scene here. Let’s talk outside.”
Ravi pushed her hand away.
“Don’t touch me! Don’t talk to me! I don’t want to see your face ever again! You are a cruel and selfish woman! You don’t deserve my love!”
He threw the ring on the table and stormed out of the restaurant.
He ran to his car and drove away as fast as he could.
He cried all the way home.
He locked himself in his room and refused to talk to anyone.
He felt like his world had collapsed.
He felt like he had lost everything.
He felt like he had no reason to live.
He wished he could die.
The next day, he received a phone call from his friend Ananda.
Ananda was a Buddhist monk who lived in a monastery near Kurunegala, North Western Province, Sri Lanka. He had been Ravi’s childhood friend before he became a monk. They had kept in touch over the years and often exchanged messages and calls.
Ananda had heard about Ravi’s situation from another friend and he was worried about him.
He wanted to help him.
He wanted to teach him how to deal with rejections.
“Hello, Ravi. How are you?” Ananda asked.
Ravi did not answer. He just sobbed.
Ananda understood. He did not press him.
He just listened.
He listened to Ravi’s pain and sorrow.
He listened to Ravi’s anger and resentment.
He listened to Ravi’s despair and hopelessness.
He listened with compassion and patience.
He listened until Ravi had no more tears to shed.
Then he spoke.
“Ravi, I’m sorry for what happened to you. I know how much it hurts. I know how much you loved Priya. I know how much you wanted to marry her. But you have to accept the reality. She is not the one for you. She has chosen someone else. She has rejected you.”
Ravi felt a pang in his chest.
He hated hearing those words.
He hated accepting those facts.
He hated facing that truth.
But he knew that Ananda was right.
He knew that he had to let go of Priya.
He knew that he had to move on with his life.
But he did not know how.
He did not know how to heal his broken heart.
He did not know how to overcome his bitter feelings.
He did not know how to find happiness again.
He asked Ananda for help.
“Ananda, please help me. How can I deal with this rejection? How can I forget Priya? How can I be happy again?”
Ananda smiled gently.
“Ravi, I’m glad you asked me for help. I have some advice for you. It is based on the teachings of the Buddha, the enlightened one who showed the path to liberation from suffering. If you follow this advice, I’m sure you will be able to deal with this rejection and find happiness again.”
Ravi was curious. He wanted to hear Ananda’s advice. He wanted to learn from the Buddha’s teachings. He wanted to try the path to liberation.
He asked Ananda to tell him more.
“Ananda, please tell me more. What is the advice? What are the teachings? What is the path?”
Ananda nodded.
“Ravi, the advice is simple but profound. It is based on four noble truths and eightfold path. These are the core teachings of Buddhism that explain the nature of suffering and the way to end it.”
Ravi was intrigued. He wanted to know more about the four noble truths and eightfold path. He wanted to understand the nature of suffering and the way to end it.
He asked Ananda to explain them.
“Ananda, please explain them. What are the four noble truths? What are the eightfold path?”
Ananda explained.
“Ravi, the four noble truths are as follows:
The first noble truth is that there is suffering in life. Suffering is the dissatisfaction, pain, sorrow, and distress that we experience in various situations. Suffering is inevitable and universal. Everyone suffers in some way or another.
The second noble truth is that there is a cause of suffering. The cause of suffering is craving or attachment. Craving or attachment is the desire for things to be different from what they are. Craving or attachment is the source of our expectations, hopes, fears, and disappointments.
The third noble truth is that there is an end of suffering. The end of suffering is nirvana or enlightenment. Nirvana or enlightenment is the state of peace, joy, and freedom that arises when we let go of craving or attachment. Nirvana or enlightenment is the ultimate goal of Buddhism.
The fourth noble truth is that there is a path to the end of suffering. The path to the end of suffering is the eightfold path. The eightfold path is a set of guidelines for living a moral, ethical, and spiritual life. The eightfold path leads to nirvana or enlightenment.”
Ravi listened carefully. He found the four noble truths very logical and realistic. He realized that he was suffering because he was attached to Priya. He realized that he had to let go of his attachment to end his suffering.
He asked Ananda how to do that.
“Ananda, how can I let go of my attachment? How can I follow the eightfold path?”
Ananda answered.
“Ravi, you can let go of your attachment by practicing mindfulness and meditation. Mindfulness and meditation are techniques for training your mind to be aware, calm, and clear. Mindfulness and meditation help you to see things as they are, not as you want them to be.
You can follow the eightfold path by cultivating these eight factors:
Right view: Right view is having a correct understanding of reality based on the four noble truths and other teachings of the Buddha.
Right intention: Right intention is having a positive and wholesome motivation for your actions based on compassion, kindness, and wisdom.
Right speech: Right speech is speaking truthfully, kindly, and respectfully without lying, slandering, abusing, or gossiping.
Right action: Right action is acting morally, ethically, and peacefully without killing, stealing, harming, or exploiting others.
Right livelihood: Right livelihood is earning a living in a way that does not cause harm or suffering to yourself or others.
Right effort: Right effort is making an effort to prevent or overcome unwholesome states of mind such as greed, hatred, and delusion and to develop wholesome states of mind such as generosity, love, and wisdom.
Right mindfulness: Right mindfulness is being aware of your body, feelings, thoughts, and phenomena in the present moment without judgment or distraction.
Right concentration: Right concentration is developing a focused and stable mind through meditation.”
Ravi was impressed. He found the eightfold path very practical and beneficial. He realized that he had to practice these factors to live a better life.
He asked Ananda how to start.
“Ananda, how can I start practicing these factors? How can I learn mindfulness and meditation?”
Ananda suggested.
“Ravi, you can start practicing these factors by applying them in your daily life. You can learn mindfulness and meditation by reading books, watching videos, listening to podcasts, or joining courses on these topics.
But the best way to learn mindfulness and meditation is by visiting a monastery and learning from a teacher.
That’s why I’m inviting you to come with me to my monastery near Kurunegala.
There you will meet my teacher who is a very wise and compassionate monk.
He will teach you everything you need to know about mindfulness and meditation.
He will guide you on your journey to nirvana.”
Ravi was grateful. He thanked Ananda for his invitation. He accepted it.
Once upon a time, there was a boy named Jack who lived in a small village in India. He was very poor and had to work hard every day to help his family. He dreamed of becoming a doctor and helping people who were sick and suffering.
One day, he heard that a famous Buddhist monk was visiting the nearby town. He decided to go and see him, hoping to learn something from his wisdom. He borrowed some money from his friend and took a bus to the town.
He arrived at the temple where the monk was giving a talk. He joined the crowd of people who were listening attentively to the monk’s words. The monk spoke about the power of not giving up, and how it can lead to happiness and success in life.
He said, “My dear friends, life is full of challenges and difficulties. Sometimes we may feel hopeless and want to give up. But we should never lose faith in ourselves and our potential. We should always remember that we have a precious human life, which is a rare opportunity to practice the Dharma and attain enlightenment. We should use this life wisely and diligently, and not waste it on meaningless pursuits. We should always strive to overcome our obstacles and achieve our goals, no matter how hard they may seem. This is the power of not giving up.”
He continued, “The power of not giving up is not something that we can get from outside. It is something that we have to cultivate within ourselves. It is a quality of mind that is based on courage, confidence, patience, perseverance, and compassion. It is a quality that can be developed by anyone who has a sincere aspiration and a strong determination. It is a quality that can transform our lives and make us happy and successful.”
He then gave some practical tips on how to develop the power of not giving up. He said, “First, we have to set a clear and realistic goal for ourselves. We have to know what we want to achieve and why we want to achieve it. We have to make sure that our goal is in harmony with our values and principles, and that it benefits ourselves and others. Second, we have to make a plan on how to achieve our goal. We have to break down our goal into smaller steps and tasks, and assign a time frame for each of them. We have to monitor our progress and adjust our plan if necessary. Third, we have to take action on our plan. We have to work hard and smart, and not be lazy or procrastinate. We have to face our challenges with courage and optimism, and not be afraid of failure or criticism. We have to learn from our mistakes and improve ourselves constantly. Fourth, we have to seek support from others who can help us achieve our goal. We have to find mentors, teachers, friends, or family members who can guide us, advise us, encourage us, or inspire us. We have to listen to their feedback and appreciate their help. Fifth, we have to celebrate our achievements and reward ourselves for our efforts. We have to acknowledge our successes and be grateful for them. We have to enjoy the fruits of our labor and share them with others who supported us or who can benefit from them.”
The monk concluded his talk by saying, “My dear friends, these are some of the tips that I have learned from my own experience and from the teachings of the Buddha. I hope they will help you develop the power of not giving up in your own lives. Remember that nothing is impossible if you have faith in yourself and your potential. Remember that you are the master of your own destiny, and you can create your own happiness and success. Remember that you are not alone in this journey, and you can always rely on the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha for guidance and support. Remember that you are a precious human being with a noble purpose in this world, and you can make a positive difference in yourself and others.”
The crowd applauded the monk’s talk enthusiastically. Jack was deeply moved by his words. He felt a surge of inspiration and motivation in his heart. He decided to follow the monk’s advice and pursue his dream of becoming a doctor.
He went back to his village and enrolled in a school that offered scholarships for poor students who wanted to study medicine. He studied hard every day, despite the hardships he faced at home and at school. He never gave up on his goal, even when he encountered failures or difficulties.
He also made friends with other students who shared his dream or who supported him in his journey. One of them was a girl named Maya, who came from another village nearby. She was also poor but had a bright mind and a kind heart. She wanted to become a nurse and help people who were sick and suffering.
Jack and Maya became close friends over time. They helped each other with their studies, their problems, their hopes, and their fears. They encouraged each other with their words, their actions, their smiles, and their hugs.
They also learned more about Buddhism from the monk who visited the town. They attended his talks whenever they could, and read his books and articles. They practiced meditation and mindfulness, and followed the five precepts of morality. They developed a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Dharma, and applied it to their lives.
They also developed a deeper love and respect for each other. They realized that they were more than friends, they were soulmates. They decided to get married after they finished their studies.
They graduated from their school with honors and received scholarships to study further in a prestigious university in the city. They moved to the city and continued their education and training. They also continued their practice and service. They joined a Buddhist community that was active in social work and charity. They volunteered in hospitals, clinics, schools, orphanages, and other places where they could help people who were sick, poor, or needy.
They became successful doctors and nurses, and fulfilled their dream of helping people who were sick and suffering. They also became happy and peaceful individuals, and fulfilled their dream of attaining enlightenment.
They never forgot the power of not giving up, and how it changed their lives for the better. They never forgot the monk who taught them this power, and how he inspired them to follow their dreams. They never forgot the Buddha who showed them this power, and how he guided them to the ultimate happiness.
They lived happily ever after, until they passed away peacefully in each other’s arms.
Once upon a time, there was a young man named Ravi who lived in Colombo, Sri Lanka. He had a good job as a software engineer, but he felt lonely and unhappy. He had no friends or family to share his life with, and he spent most of his time working or browsing the internet. He often wondered what the meaning of his existence was, and if there was anyone who cared about him.
One day, he decided to visit a Buddhist temple near his home. He had heard that Buddhism offered a way to overcome suffering and find peace. He thought that maybe he could learn something from the monks who lived there. He entered the temple and saw a serene-looking monk sitting in front of a statue of Buddha. He approached him and bowed respectfully.
“Hello, sir. I am Ravi. I came here to seek your guidance. I am feeling very lonely and unhappy in my life. Can you help me?” he asked.
The monk smiled and nodded. “Welcome, Ravi. I am glad you came here. Loneliness is a common problem in this world, but it can be overcome with the right attitude and practice. Do you know what causes loneliness?”
Ravi shook his head. “No, sir. I don’t know.”
The monk explained, “Loneliness is caused by the illusion of separation. We think that we are separate from others, from nature, from the universe, and from ourselves. We think that we need someone or something to make us happy and complete. But this is not true. We are all connected by the same life force that flows through everything. We are all part of the same reality that is beyond words and concepts. We are all one.”
Ravi was puzzled by the monk’s words. He asked, “How can we be one? I don’t see any connection between me and others. I feel like an outsider, like I don’t belong anywhere.”
The monk said, “That is because you are looking at the surface of things, not at their essence. You are identifying yourself with your body, your mind, your emotions, your thoughts, your opinions, your preferences, your likes and dislikes. These are all temporary and changing aspects of yourself that do not define who you really are. They are like waves on the ocean that rise and fall, but they are not the ocean itself.”
“Then who am I really?” Ravi asked.
The monk said, “You are the ocean itself. You are the awareness that witnesses everything that happens in your life. You are the pure consciousness that is beyond form and name. You are the Buddha nature that is within everyone and everything.”
Ravi was amazed by the monk’s answer. He asked, “How can I realize this? How can I experience this oneness?”
The monk said, “You can realize this by practicing meditation. Meditation is a way of calming your mind and observing your thoughts without getting attached to them or judging them. Meditation helps you to detach yourself from your ego and connect with your true self. Meditation also helps you to develop compassion and kindness towards yourself and others.”
“Can you teach me how to meditate?” Ravi asked eagerly.
The monk agreed and taught Ravi how to sit comfortably, how to breathe deeply, how to focus on his breath, how to let go of his thoughts, and how to be mindful of his sensations and feelings.
Ravi followed the monk’s instructions and began to meditate. At first, he found it difficult to concentrate and quiet his mind. He was distracted by many thoughts and emotions that arose in his mind. He felt restless and bored.
But he did not give up. He continued to meditate every day for half an hour in the morning and evening under the guidance of the monk.
Gradually, he noticed some changes in himself.
He felt more relaxed and peaceful.
He felt more aware and alert.
He felt more connected and compassionate.
He felt less lonely and unhappy.
He realized that he was not alone in this world.
He realized that he had many things to be grateful for in his life.
He realized that he had a purpose in his life.
He realized that he was one with everything.
He realized that he was happy.
He thanked the monk for his help and wisdom.
The monk smiled and said, “You are welcome, Ravi. You have done well. You have overcome loneliness by finding yourself. You have found happiness by finding oneness.”
Ravi bowed to the monk and left the temple with a smile on his face.
He walked back to his home with a new sense of joy and confidence.
He greeted everyone he met on his way with kindness and respect.
He called his parents and told them how much he loved them.
He joined a volunteer group and helped others in need.
He made new friends and shared his experiences with them.
Once upon a time, there was a young woman named Maya who lived in a city in India. She was a successful and ambitious lawyer, but she had one problem: she always compared herself with others. She compared her looks, her skills, her achievements, and her status with those of her colleagues, friends, and rivals. She felt either insecure or arrogant, depending on the situation. She was never content with herself, and she always felt stressed and unhappy.
One day, she decided to seek the advice of her mentor, Mr. Kumar, who was one of the senior partners of the law firm. She approached him respectfully and said, “Sir, I have a question for you. How can I stop comparing myself with others? I always feel either inferior or superior to them, and I cannot find peace in my mind.”
Mr. Kumar smiled and said, “Maya, you have asked a very important question. Comparing yourself with others is a source of much suffering and confusion. It prevents you from seeing yourself and others as they really are, and it hinders your personal and professional growth. I have learned a way to overcome this habit from an ancient wisdom tradition. Do you want to learn it?”
Maya nodded eagerly and said, “Yes, sir, please teach me.”
Mr. Kumar said, “The way to stop comparing yourself with others is to practice the four positive attitudes: kindness, compassion, joy, and equanimity. These are the qualities that I have cultivated in myself and taught you to develop as well. They are the antidotes to insecurity, arrogance, jealousy, and resentment. They are the sources of happiness, harmony, and wisdom. They are the foundations of success.”
Maya listened attentively and asked, “How can I practice these four positive attitudes?”
Mr. Kumar said, “You can practice them by using these four affirmations as your daily mantras:
I am happy and free from suffering.
All beings are happy and free from suffering.
I celebrate the happiness and success of others.
I accept myself and others as they are, without attachment or aversion.
You can repeat these affirmations silently in your mind, while focusing on your breath. You can start by directing them towards yourself, then towards someone you love, then towards someone you are neutral towards, then towards someone you dislike, and finally towards all beings in the world. You can do this for as long as you wish, or until your mind becomes calm and clear.”
Maya thanked Mr. Kumar for his guidance and said, “I will try to practice this meditation every day.”
Mr. Kumar said, “Very good, Maya. I wish you all the best in your practice. Remember that the only person you need to compare yourself with is yourself yesterday. If you have improved in any way today, then you have succeeded. If not, then you have an opportunity to learn from your mistakes and try again tomorrow. Do not worry about what others think of you or what they do. Focus on your own path and your own goal: the excellence in your work.”
Maya bowed to Mr. Kumar and left him with a sense of gratitude and inspiration.
She followed his advice and practiced the four positive attitudes every day. Gradually, she noticed a change in her attitude and behavior. She became more kind and compassionate towards herself and others. She became more joyful and appreciative of the good qualities and achievements of others. She became more balanced and peaceful in her mind, regardless of the changing circumstances.
She realized that she had stopped comparing herself with others, and that she had found a true happiness that did not depend on anything external.
Once upon a time, there was a young man named Tharindu who lived in Kurunegala, Sri Lanka. He was a devout Buddhist who followed the teachings of the Buddha and practiced meditation regularly. He had a girlfriend named Nethmi, who was also a Buddhist and shared his interests and values. They had been dating for two years and were very happy together.
One day, Tharindu received a phone call from Nethmi, who told him that she wanted to break up with him. She said that she had met someone else, who was more compatible with her and made her feel more alive. She said that she was sorry, but she had to follow her heart. She thanked Tharindu for everything and hung up.
Tharindu was shocked and heartbroken by this sudden news. He felt betrayed, angry, and sad. He wondered what he had done wrong, and why Nethmi had left him for another man. He felt like his whole world had collapsed, and he didn’t know how to cope with his loss.
He tried to call Nethmi back, but she didn’t answer. He sent her messages, but she didn’t reply. He went to her house, but she wasn’t there. He asked her friends, but they didn’t know where she was. He felt like he had lost all contact with her, and he didn’t know if he would ever see her again.
He became depressed and isolated himself from his family and friends. He stopped going to work and school. He stopped meditating and praying. He stopped caring about anything. He spent his days in his room, crying and thinking about Nethmi. He blamed himself for the breakup, and wondered what he could have done differently. He wished that he could turn back time and make things right.
He started to have negative thoughts about himself, Nethmi, and life in general. He thought that he was worthless, that Nethmi was cruel, and that life was unfair. He thought that he would never find happiness or love again. He thought that he had no purpose or meaning in life. He thought that he would be better off dead.
He decided to end his life by taking an overdose of pills. He wrote a suicide note, saying goodbye to his family and friends, and apologizing for his actions. He swallowed the pills and lay down on his bed, waiting for death to come.
But death did not come.
Instead, he heard a knock on his door. It was his neighbor, Mr. Perera, who was an elderly man and a respected Buddhist monk. Mr. Perera had noticed that Tharindu had not been seen for a long time, and he was worried about him. He decided to check on him and see if he was alright.
He entered Tharindu’s room and saw him lying on his bed, pale and unconscious. He saw the empty pill bottle and the suicide note on the table. He realized what Tharindu had done, and he quickly called an ambulance.
He also called Tharindu’s parents, who rushed to the hospital where Tharindu was taken. They were shocked and saddened by their son’s attempt to kill himself. They blamed themselves for not noticing his depression and not helping him sooner.
They prayed for Tharindu’s recovery, and they thanked Mr. Perera for saving his life.
Tharindu survived the overdose, but he was still in a critical condition. He was put on a ventilator and given medication to stabilize his vital signs.
He remained unconscious for several days, during which his parents stayed by his side, hoping that he would wake up.
Meanwhile, Mr. Perera visited Tharindu every day at the hospital. He brought flowers, fruits, books, and CDs of Buddhist chants to cheer him up.
He also talked to him softly, even though he knew that Tharindu could not hear him.
He told him stories from the Buddha’s life, such as how the Buddha overcame suffering by following the Noble Eightfold Path¹, how the Buddha taught compassion by saving a wounded swan², how the Buddha showed wisdom by solving a dispute over a water source³, and how the Buddha inspired generosity by giving away his possessions⁴.
He also gave him practical tips on how to heal from a breakup, such as:
Accepting the reality of the situation and letting go of attachment.
Forgiving oneself and one’s ex-partner for any mistakes or hurtful words.
Focusing on one’s own well-being and happiness instead of dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.
Seeking support from family, friends, or professionals who can offer comfort and guidance.
Engaging in positive activities that bring joy and fulfillment, such as hobbies, sports, volunteering, or learning new skills.
Practicing meditation and mindfulness to calm the mind and cultivate inner peace.
Developing gratitude and appreciation for the blessings and opportunities in life.
Cultivating loving-kindness and compassion for oneself and others, especially those who are suffering.
Finding meaning and purpose in life by following one’s passions and values.
Opening oneself to new possibilities and experiences, such as meeting new people, traveling to new places, or exploring new interests.
He told him that these tips were based on the Buddha’s teachings, and that they could help him overcome his pain and find happiness again.
He told him that he was not alone, and that he cared for him.
He told him that he loved him.
One day, Tharindu opened his eyes.
He saw Mr. Perera sitting next to his bed, smiling at him.
He felt a warm and gentle sensation in his chest.
He felt a faint but growing spark of hope in his heart.
He felt a faint but growing sense of gratitude in his mind.
He felt a faint but growing desire to live in his soul.
