The quote “In Buddhism what we seek to do is change ourselves into someone who’s beautiful to be” captures the essence of personal transformation that is at the heart of Buddhist teachings. It doesn’t refer to physical beauty, but rather to a state of being that is characterized by inner peace, compassion, wisdom, and a deep sense of fulfillment. This is the “beauty” that Buddhism encourages us to cultivate within ourselves.
The process of becoming “beautiful to be” involves a journey of self-discovery and self-improvement. It requires us to be mindful of our thoughts, emotions, and actions, and to strive for self-awareness and self-understanding. It also involves the cultivation of virtues such as patience, generosity, and loving-kindness, which are seen as the marks of a truly beautiful person in the Buddhist tradition.
In the context of today’s world, this quote can be seen as a call to prioritize inner growth and personal development. In a society that often values external achievements and material success, this quote reminds us that true beauty and fulfillment come from within. It suggests that we should focus on becoming the best versions of ourselves, rather than comparing ourselves to others or seeking external validation.
In terms of personal development, this quote can serve as a guiding principle. It encourages us to cultivate positive qualities and to work on overcoming our negative habits and tendencies. It also reminds us that personal growth is a continuous process, and that we should always strive to become better and more beautiful in our being.
In practical terms, this might involve practices such as meditation, mindfulness, and ethical living, which are all central to Buddhist teachings. It might also involve seeking to understand and transform our negative emotions, and to cultivate positive emotions and attitudes. Finally, it might involve striving to live in a way that is beneficial to others, as well as to ourselves, since compassion and altruism are seen as key aspects of a beautiful being in Buddhism.
