“Happiness derived from mere physical comfort tends to be shallow and fleeting. It fails to pacify anxiety and fear. Whereas if we have a calm mind it is effective in overcoming even physical pain; therefore we should not neglect the inner values that are a source of a calm mind.”
This is a quote by the Dalai Lama. As with other people who have acquired wisdom, he is able to express much in a few words.
The Dalai Lama telling us not to neglect inner values reminds me of the importance of trying to listen to and discern messages from our inner voice. It is by endeavoring to follow our inner direction that those values are formed. Sometimes when I’m walking or driving and see other people, I think about how the Creator wants to speak to each of us to help guide us each day.
It’s important too that we keep in mind that, as the Dalai Lama points out, happiness which results from physical comfort is temporary happiness. The majority of people who live in the United States and in the other wealthy countries have many forms of physical comfort, including nice places to live and an abundance and variety of food from which to choose, along with many other blessings, for which we should be thankful. But we need to remember that acquiring possessions isn’t what matters most. Acquiring inner values is what matters most.
When the Dalai Lama refers to the inner values, some of the values that come to mind for me are generosity, honesty, integrity, creativity, and courage. These qualities matter far more than any material belongings. These qualities lead to a sense of peace, to having a calm mind.