The Buddha said: “Mind is the forerunner of all experience. Mind leads and shapes experience. Speak or act with a corrupted mind and suffering follows.”

.

“Mind is the forerunner of all experience. Mind is chief, experiences are mind-made. Speak or act with a wholesome mind and happiness follows.”

.

When I first heard this, it brought me to a standstill. I had a lot of things that I was complaining about. And I spoke impulsively and simmered with tons of remorse. Oh boy!

.

The Buddha was throwing me a lifeline, and my teachers were there to help me sort myself out. I felt encouraged, energized, like, wow, I’m on my way here!