Tag: contemplative wisdom
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The Royal Falcon and the Old Woman
We all carry expectations of others — our friends, family, or people we work with.Inevitably, there are moments when they do not behave the way we expect them to. How do you respond when someone does not say, do, or be what you expected?What happens within you at such times? Rumi’s Masnavi shares a story…
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To Whom Should We Pray?
Who are the people you turn to when you need something? And what happens when they cannot—or will not—help? Here is a story about a fakir and his guest that carries an important insight on seeking the fulfilment of our wants. The Generous Fakir There is a gatha about a fakir known for his generous…
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Where Does the Buddha Live?
We try many ways to find peace. We pray, visit places of worship, follow rituals, and read books.But sometimes, even after all that, the fear or pain doesn’t go away. What should we do then? A young boy once asked Thich Nhat Hanh a question— one that may hold a gentle answer for our own…
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Conquering the World
What do you think will make you happy?What is the goal you’re working towards in the hope that it will bring you peace? The story of the young monarch and his question to the sage holds a kind of wisdom that may speak to us too. The Monarch’s Visit A young monarch once sought the…
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The Markers of Success: Power, Praise, Influence
How do we measure success in life?By the praise we receive?The wealth we accumulate?The influence we hold with those in power? Let’s pause—and consider how the true teachers of wisdom see these markers of success. Who Was Sain Mian Mir? In times when divisions run deep and places of worship become battlegrounds, the life of…
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Tunda Asraj: Even if the world turns against you
Have you ever been let down by someone you trusted?Faced loss—of dignity, stability, or a rightful place—because of betrayal or sheer bad luck?Stood powerless against forces bigger than you? The story of Tunda Asraj is a good reminder for such times. The Young Prince of Sarang Asraj was the only son of King Sarang and…
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Heaven and Hell — And Our Real Destination
Does life ever feel like a roller coaster? Sometimes, everything seems perfect — we feel light, joyful, and the whole world looks bright and welcoming. We call those moments our little taste of ‘heaven’. And sometimes, we find ourselves plunged into valleys of despair, wondering if we’ll ever find a way out. Life feels like…
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Relationships: Nurturing our flower garden
Is there a friendship or relationship that you were very fond of in the start, but have sweet-sour tones now? Or someone you continue to love deeply, but some days, just being around them feels difficult? Relationships go through ups and downs, and the ones that weather the storms become our strongest support in the…
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When We Worry About Someone We Love
Have you ever found yourself deeply worried about someone you love — perhaps a parent, a child, a partner, or a close friend? When we care for someone with all our heart, their happiness becomes inseparable from our own. Their smile lights us up. Their struggles weigh us down. Sometimes, this concern becomes so intense…
