Psychologist Christopher Germer was introduced to the concept of radical self-compassion in the early 2000s while searching for solutions to his public speaking anxiety, which led him to explore Sri Lankan mindfulness meditation. Germer turned his studies of self-compassion into a popular training program and book, “The Mindful Path to Self-Compassion.” The 2009 book compares practicing emotional self-compassion to, say, bandaging a cut finger. This quote from the book summates Germer’s entire thesis: Being patient, considerate, and gentle toward oneself not only has the ability to turn a bad day into a good one, but it also holds the power to completely transform your life and your relationship to yourself and the world. In Germer’s own words: “Freeing yourself from the trap of destructive thoughts and emotions … can boost your self-esteem from the inside out. Self-compassion is the foundation of compassion for others.”

Marcus Tullius Cicero was a Roman philosopher who lived in the first century BCE and was one of the most influential figures of the Roman Republic. Often listed among the greatest orators and writers of all time, Cicero wrote extensively on many topics, including politics, philosophy, law, rhetoric, and literature. His writings are characterized by their clarity, precision, and eloquence, which can be seen in this heartwarming quote about friendship. His work has had a lasting impact on Western civilization and his ideas are still studied today.