Many Eastern cultures, religions, and philosophies place a strong emphasis on seeking harmony with one's environment, family, and community. In these traditions, the well-being of all is often considered just as important as the well-being of the individual — if not more so.
In Confucianism, one of the foundational teachings is the idea of “ren,” or humaneness. It encourages us to treat others with respect and compassion. Similarly, in Buddhism, the concept of "mettā," or benevolence, is key to cultivating such compassion. And at the heart of Taoism is learning to live in harmony with the nature of things.
Harmony is a recurring theme throughout many Eastern teachings and practices. Compassion and kindness are necessary for nurturing a community — which is key to a meaningful and fulfilling life. These idioms and quotes on caring for your community distill those teachings to a few memorable — and applicable — words of wisdom and advice.
What you do not want done to yourself, do not do to others.Confucius
Trees planted by the ancestors provide shade for their descendants.Chinese proverb
Those who do not have faith in others will not be able to stand on their own.Sheng Yen
When we are able to take one step peacefully and happily, we are working for the cause of peace and happiness for the whole of humankind. Walking meditation is a wonderful practice.Thích Nhất Hạnh
Harmony in the family leads to prosperity in all undertakings.Chinese proverb
He who sees all beings in his self and his self in all beings, he never suffers; because when he sees all creatures within his true self, then jealousy, grief and hatred vanish. He alone can love.Swami Paramananda
You must not lose faith in humanity. Humanity is an ocean; if a few drops of the ocean are dirty, the ocean does not become dirty.Mahatma Gandhi
Souls render service to one another.Umāsvāti
If you want happiness for an hour — take a nap. / If you want happiness for a day — go fishing. / If you want happiness for a year — inherit a fortune. / If you want happiness for a lifetime — help someone else.Chinese proverb
One who neglects or disregards the existence of earth, air, fire, water, and vegetation disregards his own existence which is entwined with them.Mahavira
Only when all contribute their firewood can they build up a strong fire.Chinese proverb
A single tree makes no forest; one string makes no music.Chinese proverb
Cultivated in the person, integrity is true. / Cultivated in the family, integrity is ample. / Cultivated in the village, integrity lasts long. / Cultivated in the state, integrity is abundant. / Cultivated everywhere under heaven, integrity is vast.Lao Tzu
Go forth in every direction — for the happiness, the harmony, the welfare of the many. Offer your heart, the seeds of understanding, like a lamp overturned and re-lit, illuminating the darkness.Gautama Buddha
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