As ordinary human beings, we strive to work hard throughout our lives, and we also may be encouraged by our families and societies as a whole to follow in the footsteps of our forefathers. People normally tend to think that as long as we can gain wealth, status, and a good reputation, then all will be well. However, our own experience tells us a different story. Even though we may fail to acquire all these things, we can discover that there is still a beautiful and meaningful life to be found outside of this mindset. We all think differently, so what is important to us may not necessarily be essential to others. Therefore, we have to determine what is meaningful for ourselves in this life now, because nobody can tell us how long we will live to enjoy our precious life. In sum, we should enjoy our lives without selfishness, and whatever comes to us, we should accept it wholeheartedly and be contented, and this is where the true meaning of life resides.

-- Zurmang Gharwang Rinpoche