Balancing Self and Others

 

In Mahayana Buddhism, the term “self-benefit and altruism” teaches that pursuing one’s own happiness and bringing happiness to others are inseparable, like two sides of the same coin. Looking back, I cannot deny that before retirement, I was overly focused on my own desire for self-realization at work. After retiring, however, I began to place greater importance—and devote more time—to actions that contribute to the happiness of others. In doing so, I began to hear a subtle voice within, reminding me that it is equally important to cultivate virtue for myself. Through this shift, I realized that balancing self-interest with altruism is essential for living a life without regrets, at any age.

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