"We can train
ourselves in the art of deep, compassionate listening and loving speech.
The Fourth Mindfulness Training can be our guide."
~Thich Nhat Hanh~
“Aware of the suffering caused by unmindful speech and the inability to
listen to others, I am committed to cultivating loving speech and
compassionate listening in order to relieve suffering and to promote
reconciliation and peace in myself and among other people, ethnic and
religious groups, and nations. Knowing that words can create happiness
or suffering, I am committed to speaking truthfully using words that
inspire confidence, joy, and hope. When anger is manifesting in me, I am
determined not to speak. I will practice mindful breathing and walking
in order to recognize and to look deeply into my anger. I know that the
roots of anger can be found in my wrong perceptions and lack of
understanding of the suffering in myself and in the other person. I will
speak and listen in a way that can help myself and the other person to
transform suffering and see the way out of difficult situations. I am
determined not to spread news that I do not know to be certain and not
to utter words that can cause division or discord. I will practice Right
Diligence to nourish my capacity for understanding, love, joy, and
inclusiveness, and gradually transform anger, violence, and fear that
lie deep in my consciousness.”
