Quote by Thich Nhat Hanh

When you plant lettuce, if it does not grow well, you don't blame the lettuce. You look into the reasons it is not doing well. It may need fertilizer, or more water, or less sun. You never blame the lettuce. Yet if we have problems with our friends or our family, we blame the other person. But if we know how to take care of them, they will grow well, like lettuce. Blaming has no positive effect at all, nor does trying to persuade using reason and arguments. That is my experience. No blame, no reasoning, no argument, just understanding. If you understand, and you show that you understand, you can love, and the situation will change.

Summary

This quote emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for nurturing and understanding our relationships with others. Comparing it to growing lettuce, it highlights the tendency to blame others when conflicts arise instead of examining the underlying causes. The quote suggests that instead of relying on blame, reasoning, or arguments, it is crucial to aim for understanding. By empathizing and demonstrating this understanding, love can flourish, leading to transformative changes in relationships. Overall, the quote encourages a shift in perspective to foster empathy and compassion as key elements in resolving conflicts and strengthening connections with others.