We create our own happiness.

Everything is fleeting. Everything must pass.

Every day is a new day.

Life is a magical and fleeting moment, and we must hold onto it with all our strength. But one day, we must let go.

The Fragility and Beauty of Life

Real love takes time.Real people aren’t puzzle pieces.We don’t find someone who is our perfect match. We have to bend a little to accommodate each other. That doesn’t happen at first sight.<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Love needs time to develop</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Don’t expect someone to complete you</li><li class="ql-align-justify">You both have to make compromises</li><li class="ql-align-justify">It’s not an instant connection</li></ul>We are all unique and different, so it takes patience and understanding to build a successful relationship. Don’t rush it, the right person will come along in due time. ❤️

The True Meaning of Love

Just keep breathing 😉

The Secret to living forever

Life is wonderful, even when things don't go as planned. Remember, with every disappointment, you become stronger. So, embrace them just like your successes. <ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Don't believe that the end of the world is the end of everything.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Stay strong and keep moving forward.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Remember, the sun still rises even when the world seems to be falling apart.</li></ul>

Enjoy Life and Stay Strong!

A story about humanity, the important things that hold us together, and how hope can be found, even at the end of the world.

Previously published as NOT FORGETTING THE WHALE THE INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER 'A gentle and uplifting tale of warding off apocalypse in a remote corner of Cornwall . . . charming' Financial Times For fans of ELEANOR OLIPHANT, THE ROSIE PROJECT & THE UNLIKELY PILGRIMAGE OF HAROLD FRY. It all began with the whale. When a young man washes up on the sands of St Piran in Cornwall, it is clear to the villagers that this is not a regular day. What has brought him here? And what is the crisis only he understands, that threatens not only their community but all of civilisation? With a global pandemic on the horizon, and a whale lurking in the bay, the villagers of St Piran must band together to survive. Intimate, funny and heart-warming, John Ironmonger tells a compelling story about the important things that hold us together, and how hope can be found, even at the end of the world. 'Fun, uplifting, charming' Financial Times 'A warm-hearted book crammed with ideas . . . very, very good' Emerald Street 'A tremendously enjoyable book' Independent on Sunday

religionandspirituality

Religion & Spirituality

motivationandinspiration

Motivation & Inspiration

loveandrelationships

Love & Relationships

teamwork

Teamwork

books

Books

John Ironmonger

The Whale at the End of the World

This curated collection delves into the profound words of renowned figures, providing a glimpse into the multifaceted nature of prayer. From the power of gratitude to the transformative effect on the soul, these inspiring quotes will illuminate your spiritual quest.

Intro

“I pray because I can’t help myself. I pray because I’m helpless. I pray because the need flows out of me all the time, waking and sleeping. It doesn’t change God. It changes me.” – C.S. Lewis .

Helps my Helplessness.

No true prayer session is ended without a renewed consciousness of God’s hallowedness. – Pray Book.

“Work is a prayer. And I start off every morning dedicating it to our Creator.” – Joseph Murray

[Prayerful Work]

Prayer is labor, and many times when you are praying, you will not feel like it. – Emmanuel Iren.

Prayer Is Labour

“A grateful heart is a beginning of greatness. It is an expression of humility. It is a foundation for the development of such virtues as prayer, faith, courage, contentment, happiness, love, and well-being.” – James E. Faust

[Greatness from Gratitude]

“Prayer is the soul’s sincere desire, uttered or unexpressed.” – Oscar Wilde

[Longing]

“The function of prayer is not to influence God, but rather to change the nature of the one who prays.” – Søren Kierkegaard

Agent of Inner Change.

“All I did was pray to God, every day. In prison camp, the main prayer was, ‘Get me home alive, God, and I’ll seek you and serve you.’ I came home, got wrapped up in the celebration, and forgot about the hundreds of promises I’d made to God.” – Louis Zamperini

[Answered Prayers]

“In my deepest, darkest moments, what really got me through was a prayer. Sometimes my prayer was ‘Help me.’ Sometimes a prayer was ‘Thank you.’ What I’ve discovered is that intimate connection and communication with my creator will always get me through because I know my support, my help, is just a prayer away.” – Iyanla Vanzant

[Prayer Sustains]

Knowing more about the human spiritual practice of Prayer through the lens of renowned people.

Explore a captivating collection of 37 profound quotes about prayer that delve into the power, importance, and transformative nature of this spiritual practice.

personaldevelopment

Personal Development

mindfulness

Mindfulness

meditation

Meditation

Connect to the Divine: 37 IMMERSIVE Quotes about Prayer.

While many value solitude as a means of introspection and reflection, they may also crave meaningful social connections and intellectual stimulation. Balancing the need for solitude with the need for social interaction and connection with others can be challenging.

habits

Habits

timemanagement

Time Management

Solitude vs. Social Connection

In the infernal depths, Dante artfully maps the landscape of consequence to human action, where the nature of one’s earthly deeds is mirrored in the afterlife's recompense. This concept, known as "contrapasso," serves as a profound philosophical reflection on justice, suggesting that the fabric of the cosmos is woven with moral law. It beckons us to tread through life with a heightened moral consciousness, recognizing that each choice casts ripples through the pond of existence, impacting not only ourselves but the broader tapestry of life.

The Consequences of Our Actions

"Justice moved my high maker; in power divine, Wisdom supreme, love primal, I was made. Before me nothing but eternal things Were made, and I endure eternally."(Inferno)

The ascent up the purgatorial mount becomes a poignant metaphor for the soul's quest for redemption and self-betterment. This journey underscores the transformative power of repentance and the relentless pursuit of personal growth. It is a clarion call to embrace our fallibility, to engage in introspection and self-correction, and to continually strive towards a higher embodiment of virtue and wisdom.

The Importance of Repentance and Personal Growth

"Expect no longer words or signs from me, Free and upright and whole is thy free-will, And error were it not to do its bidding; Thee o'er thyself I therefore crown and mitre!"(Purgatorio)

In the celestial realms, Dante is bathed in the ineffable light of divine love, a force so potent it transcends human imperfection and binds the universe. This divine love serves as a beacon, illuminating the path to a deeper spiritual communion and urging us to view existence through the prism of compassion and grace. It is an invitation to dissolve the barriers of ego and to partake in the boundless ocean of divine benevolence.

The Power of Divine Love and Grace

“The Love that moves the sun and the other stars.”(Paradiso)

Through dialogues with souls from various epochs, Dante's narrative becomes a crucible for the alchemy of understanding, blending philosophy, theology, and politics. This intellectual odyssey celebrates the pursuit of knowledge as a sacred endeavor, essential not only for individual enlightenment but as a compass to navigate the moral complexities of existence.

The Journey of the Soul

"In His will is our peace: it is that sea To which everything moves, both that it creates and nature makes."(Paradiso)

The Quest for Wisdom

"Consider your origin; you were not formed to live like brutes but to follow virtue and knowledge." (Inferno)

The Divine Comedy" presents a cosmic symphony of interconnected lives, a harmonious blend of destinies intertwined in the dance of eternity. It articulates a vision of humanity bound by a shared journey, a collective pilgrimage towards redemption and understanding. This perspective invites us to recognize our common humanity, to empathize with the myriad human conditions, and to acknowledge our role in the grand tapestry of life.

Interconnectedness of Humanity

"In His will is our peace: it is that sea to which whatever it creates and nature makes is moving." (Paradiso)

Amidst the tapestry of fate and divine will, Dante places the crown of free will upon the human condition. The poem elucidates the profound agency we possess over our spiritual destinies, emphasizing that our ultimate place in the cosmos is sculpted by the hands of choice. This philosophical stance champions the dignity of human freedom and the weighty responsibility of crafting our destiny with wisdom and courage.

The Role of Free Will

"Led by her [divine Providence], man has the freedom, has the power to lay his course by different waters. But just as grace brings forth within your breast the love that blossoms into righteousness, so does the heavens' light direct your will to noble ends, providing you the spark."(Paradiso)

Through these lessons, Dante Alighieri's "The Divine Comedy" emerges not only as a monumental work of literature but as a timeless philosophical treatise, offering profound insights into the nature of human existence, ethical conduct, and the pursuit of transcendence.

The Conclusion

"Dante's The Divine Comedy,' an epic journey through Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise, elegantly maps the soul's quest for the divine. This masterpiece weaves a profound allegory of life's voyage, emphasizing moral integrity, the weight of choices, and the pursuit of celestial wisdom."

The authoritative translations of The Inferno, The Purgatorio, and The Paradiso—together in one volume. Belonging in the immortal company of the great works of literature, Dante Alighieri’s poetic masterpiece, The Divine Comedy, is a moving human drama, an unforgettable visionary journey through the infinite torment of Hell, up the arduous slopes of Purgatory, and on to the glorious realm of Paradise—the sphere of universal harmony and eternal salvation. Now, for the first time, John Ciardi’s brilliant and authoritative translations of Dante’s three soaring canticles—The Inferno, The Purgatorio, and The Paradiso—have been gathered together in a single volume. Crystallizing the power and beauty inherent in the great poet’s immortal conception of the aspiring soul, The Divine Comedy is a dazzling work of sublime truth and mystical intensity.

philosophy

Philosophy

history

History

Dante Alighieri

The Divine Comedy

Often, spiritual enlightenment in solitude involves introspection, meditation, and contemplation. By withdrawing from the external world and spending time alone, we can focus inward, exploring our thoughts, emotions, and beliefs on a deeper level. Solitude provides a space for quiet reflection, allowing us to connect with our inner selves, uncover profound truths, and experience a sense of unity with the universe or a higher power.A Journey of Self-Discovery and Inner TransformationThis journey allows one to attain insights, clarity, and a heightened sense of spiritual awareness.

Self-Discovery and Inner Transformation

Spiritual Enlightenment in Solitude

1. Self-Reflection2. Clarify Your Purpose3. Listen to Your Inner Wisdom4. Set Intentions5. Practice Mindfulness6. Seek Guidance7. Embrace Growth8. Take Inspired Action

Aligning actions with inner wisdom and higher purpose involves several steps

problemsolving

Problem Solving

Aligning actions with inner wisdom and higher purpose 

Self-respect is the foundation of healthy self-esteem and self-worth. When you respect yourself, you recognize your inherent value and treat yourself with kindness, compassion, and dignity. This involves setting boundaries, advocating for your needs, and refusing to tolerate mistreatment or disrespect from others. Cultivating self-respect fosters a positive self-image and empowers you to pursue your goals and aspirations with confidence and resilience.

1. Self-respect

Self-care involves prioritizing your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. It encompasses activities and practices that nourish and replenish your energy, such as getting enough sleep, eating nutritious food, exercising regularly, practicing mindfulness, and engaging in activities you enjoy. Prioritizing self-care allows you to recharge your batteries, reduce stress, and prevent burnout, enabling you to show up as your best self in all areas of your life.

2. Self-care

Authenticity is about being true to yourself and living in alignment with your values, beliefs, and aspirations. It involves embracing your strengths, weaknesses, and imperfections, and expressing yourself honestly and transparently in your thoughts, words, and actions. When you live authentically, you cultivate a deeper sense of self-awareness, connection, and fulfillment, as you honor your unique identity and follow your own path rather than conforming to external expectations or pressures.

3. Authenticity

By prioritizing self-respect, self-care, and authenticity, you create a solid foundation for a healthy and meaningful life. These principles empower you to navigate life's challenges with grace and integrity, pursue your goals and dreams with confidence, and cultivate deep and fulfilling connections with yourself and others.

Prioritizing self-respect, self-care, and authenticity is essential for maintaining your well-being and living a fulfilling life. Here's why each of these is important

mentalhealth

Mental Health

Prioritizing self-respect, self-care, and authenticity

When comparing God’s words to Satan’s words, a major difference is the tone and intent behind them. God’s words often carry a message of unconditional love, forgiveness, and acceptance. This message fosters trust, hope, and faith in God, bringing a sense of peace and happiness within oneself. On the other hand, Satan’s words often carry a message of division, judgment, and fear. This message fosters doubt, distrust, and fear in oneself, bringing a sense of anxiety and despair.

strategy

Strategy

The most important Lesson “Discernment”

•	Insight: Thought is a powerful tool that dispels negligence and scatters fears.	•	Action: Regularly engage in contemplation to clear your mind and enhance your focus.

Unlocking Clarity Through Deep Thought

•	Insight: Deep, detailed contemplation of personal issues is crucial for profound self-understanding.	•	Action: Dedicate time to introspect deeply about your thoughts and emotions to resolve inner conflicts.

The Importance of Internal Reflection

•	Insight: External issues require a broad, summary approach to avoid mental overwhelm.	•	Action: Focus on the big picture and avoid getting bogged down by the details of universal problems.

Managing External Thoughts

•	Insight: Diving too deeply into external details can lead to feeling overwhelmed, similar to drowning.	•	Action: Keep your external contemplations broad to maintain mental balance and effectiveness.

Avoiding the Bottomless Sea

•	Insight: Often, the value and beauty of a situation are captured better in a summary than in detailed analysis.	•	Action: Embrace simplicity in your understanding of complex issues to maintain clarity and appreciation.

Appreciating Simplicity

•	Insight: A balanced approach to internal and external thoughts promotes a unified and coherent mental state.	•	Action: Regularly assess and adjust your thinking habits to ensure they are well-balanced.

Achieving Mental Unity

•	Insight: Imbalance in contemplation methods can lead to mental disorientation and fragmentation.	•	Action: Monitor and refine your contemplation practices to foster a healthier, more integrated mindset.

Navigating Mental Landscapes

health

Health

Mastering the Art of Contemplation

When we look at the outside world, we are looking at only a small part that interests us. The world we see is not the entire universe but a limited one that the mind cares about.

We Have A Limited Perception Of Life

The world never complained about how busy it is.

"When your mind rests, the world also rests"

We feel unhappy not just because something bad has happened, but also because of the swirling thoughts about it.

Why Do We Overthink

Leave it alone and let flow. The wave of emotion will naturally recede on its own
 as long as you don’t feed it by dwelling on it.

What To Do With Unpleasant Feelings

Don’t struggle to heal your wounds. Just pour time into your heart and wait. When your wounds are ready, they will heal on their own.

These are anger, despair, and sorrow. Make a little effort to exercise, listen or talk to your mentor, and meditate on loving-kindness.

What To Do With The Toxins In Our Body

Allow yourself a good night’s sleep. When you wake up the next day, the problem will seem lighter.

When Life Disappoints, Rest a Moment

In order to live a happy and fulfilling life we need to go outside of ourselves and be compassionate and helping to others.

Focus More On Others

Watch a comedy movie, pick a song you can resonate with and sing it out loud, share food and drink with your friends, and go on a vacation.

What To Do When You Feel Down

You've been through a lot and you should be proud of you. You are eager to be there for others, so be there for you too.

Love Yourself

Before you go to bed, write down all the things that you need to do or the things that stresses you out. Write them down in a piece of paper. This will help you have a peaceful sleep at night.

Paper Stress Dump

Always ask this to yourself and every situation that you encounter.

What Can I Learn From My Mistake

The multimillion-copy bestselling book of spiritual wisdom about the importance of slowing down in our fast-paced world, by the Buddhist author of Love for Imperfect Things “Wise advice on how to reflect and slow down.” —Elle Is it the world that’s busy, or is it my mind? The world moves fast, but that doesn’t mean we have to. This bestselling mindfulness guide by Haemin Sunim (which means “spontaneous wisdom”), a renowned Buddhist meditation teacher born in Korea and educated in the United States, illuminates a path to inner peace and balance amid the overwhelming demands of everyday life. By offering guideposts to well-being and happiness in eight areas—including relationships, love, and spirituality—Haemin Sunim emphasizes the importance of forging a deeper connection with others and being compassionate and forgiving toward ourselves. The more than twenty full-color illustrations that accompany his teachings serve as calming visual interludes, encouraging us to notice that when you slow down, the world slows down with you.

Zen Buddhist teacher, bestselling author & founder of the School for Broken Hearts in Seoul.Born in South Korea and educated at Berkeley, Harvard, and Princeton, he received formal monastic training from Haein monastery, South Korea and taught Asian religions at Hampshire College in Massachusetts for seven years.He is one of the most influential Zen monks in the world, with over 1.5 million followers on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. His first book, The Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down has been translated into more than 35 different languages and sold over four million copies.His second book, Love for Imperfect Things was the number one bestseller of the year 2016 in South Korea and became available in multiple languages in 2019.

Haemin Sunim

The Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down

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