There are so many things we can learn from the extraordinary running boy - kindness, dutifulness, perseverance, and integrity, to name a few. Integrity means always doing the right thing, even if it is difficult, or even if it may lead to repercussions.

How do we know what the right thing is? When you seat yourself in a place of kindness and wisdom, you will always find what the right thing is.

Find out what happens in "The prince and the angry dragon" in Wake, a new collection of stories about wisdom, kindness, and compassion. Available on Amazon. 

Our inner critic grows up alongside us and knows all the nuances of our hopes, fears, passions, and insecurities. The inner critic is not an enemy and we cannot banish it entirely from our minds. Stay mindful and remain in the driver’s seat as the kindest, most loving, most patient, and most generous version of yourself. Invite the inner critic along for the ride. There’s only one rule. It is not allowed to drive!

There are two kinds of suffering. The first is what all beings go through when undesirable changes inevitably happen. The second kind of suffering is what we create in response to the first. Attachment is the fuel of the second kind of suffering. Attachment leads to unrealistic expectations, which lead to disappointments and more suffering. By allowing ourselves to let go of what is no longer our truth, we free ourselves from attachments and approach closer to freedom of mind.

The one person you will spend every single minute of the rest of your life with is yourself. Your body is the dwelling place of the greatest love. It is your companion and your friend. Treat it well with love, kindness, and respect.

The four divine qualities in Buddhism are lovingkindness, compassion, sympathetic joy, and equanimity. These qualities are not rare gifts that some are born with, and others lack. They are inborn transcendent qualities we all have. Get to know your divine qualities and nurture them. Maintain them in balance. You can be the sublime presence in the lives of everyone around you, including your own.

Often, we make assumptions based on what we see. An assumption is like a spell that prevents us from opening our minds to all the truths. Be mindful, shield yourself from the spell of assumption, lead with kindness, and navigate the world with an open heart.

We are born with the purest and most precious nature. Although time and life struggles may add layers of impurities to conceal it, at the core, our lovingkindness and compassion stay intact and bright. Uncover the layers of negativity and allow your true nature to shine unapologetically through. The world deserves to witness the beauty that is you.