Sister True Dedication, a Zen Buddhist nun and former BBC journalist, shares six powerful mantras that can improve relationships and communication. She emphasizes the importance of keeping misunderstandings 'dust free' and taking proactive steps to manage anger. The conversation highlights how these phrases can be adapted to modern interactions at work and home. True Dedication reflects on her transition from journalism to monastic life, infusing her insights with personal anecdotes that illustrate the transformative power of mindfulness and compassion.
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volunteer_activism ADVICE
Mantras for Better Communication
Use "mantras" to improve communication.
These are phrases spoken aloud to shift conversations positively.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Be Present for Loved Ones
Practice the mantra "I am here for you."
Show up fully present for loved ones; offer presence, not solutions.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Express Appreciation Regularly
Express appreciation with "I know you're there and I'm so happy."
Verbalize appreciation; don't wait for a crisis.
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In this classic work, Erich Fromm argues that love is not a sentiment but an art that requires effort, practice, and the development of one's total personality. He critiques the popular conception of love and asserts that true love involves care, responsibility, respect, and knowledge. Fromm explores various types of love, including brotherly love, motherly love, erotic love, self-love, and the love of God, emphasizing the importance of humility, courage, faith, and discipline in achieving mature and fulfilling love.
The Art of Communicating
Thich Nhat Hanh
In this book, Thich Nhat Hanh provides a precise and practical guide on how to communicate effectively. He emphasizes the importance of mindful communication, starting with oneself and then extending to others. The book covers key topics such as deep listening, loving speech, and managing anger. It includes examples from his work with couples, families, and international conflicts, highlighting how these skills can transform personal and global interactions. The author advocates for using mindfulness practices, such as conscious breathing, to enhance communication and reduce suffering[1][2][4].
Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet
Thich Nhat Hanh
Sister True Dedication
This book, compiled from the teachings and writings of Thich Nhat Hanh, focuses on the application of Zen Buddhist principles to address the urgent environmental and social crises of our time. It emphasizes the importance of mindfulness, compassion, and collective awakening. The book is divided into sections that discuss changing our relationship with the Earth, taking action to implement positive changes, and building communities that share these insights. It highlights the need for inner transformation and deep listening as foundational steps towards creating a regenerative world where all life is respected. The teachings are presented through Thay's meditations, Zen stories, and experiences from his activism, along with commentaries from Sister True Dedication[1][3][5].
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A journalist-turned-Buddhist-nun shares six phrases – or mantras – to help keep your relationships on the rails.
Relationships can be tricky. Especially if you find yourself upset with someone, and instead of talking it through, you let it fester until one moment you completely lose it and end up having to apologize. If you’ve ever felt like you had friction with the people in your life, or that you’ve been taken for granted, today’s episode offers you solid strategies to cope.
Sister True Dedication is a Zen Buddhist nun and teacher ordained by the great meditation teacher and author, Thich Nhat Hanh. She edited several of Thich Nhat Hanh’s books, including The Art of Living and Zen and the Art of Saving the Planet. She was born in the United Kingdom, studied history and political thought at Cambridge University, and worked for BBC News before ordaining as a nun at the age of 27.
In this episode we talk about:
The six phrases – or mantras – that Thich Nhat Hanh recommended people use in their relationships
Keeping misunderstandings “dust free”
Taking action to make sure anger doesn’t fester
The importance of recognizing that our understanding of the world is always partial
Bringing mantras to work
How Sister True Dedication went from journalism to the monastery
10% Happier with Dan Harris 
