Sean A. Thom

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.

I often say that we should eliminate the notion of ‘them'. ‘We' should be enough; the whole world is part of ‘us'. This isn't some kind of old-fashioned way of thinking, or an altruistic forgetting of your own interests. I want happiness and in order to achieve that, I need you.

What is important is not so much how long you live as whether you live a meaningful life. This doesn’t mean accumulating money and fame, but being of service to your fellow human beings. It means helping others if you can, but even if you can’t do that, at least not harming them.

We can no longer exploit the resources of this earth—the trees, the water, and other natural resources—without any care for coming generations. Common sense tells us that unless we change, we won’t survive. This Earth Day let’s resolve to live in harmony with nature.

Time is always moving on; nothing can stop it. We can't change the past, but we can learn from it to shape the future. Stress on ‘us’ and ‘them’ is a source of conflict. We neglect basic human qualities of kindness and compassion. Let’s work together to create a happier future.