Some people find the ancient teachings helpful because they encourage us to be kind to ourselves. When we feel bad in some way about ourselves, loving kindness towards ourselves is the way to treat this feeling. This then becomes the basis for extending the same unconditional kindness towards others.
Every path in life has its own sacrifices and hardships. But no matter your path or vocation, give up worldly desires and attachments, this will help you live your life completely. Be the best you can at whatever path you choose, you will only err when you try to be who you are not.
There are two kinds of wisdom. The first is worldly wisdom, which is a conceptual understanding of your experiences, this inhibits your direct understanding of the truth. The second kind, integral wisdom, involves a direct participation in every moment, with no mental concepts or attitudes.
Be equanimous and agreeable when you deal with others, when performing service be respectful and serious, be thorough and precise in activity, be careful and prudent in your speech. Although manners and conduct are not self-cultivation, do not slight them.
Quote: If this is bad what does good look like?