In order to carry a positive action we must develop here a

Hear the voice of the sage, the Dalai Lama, who spoke thus: “In order to carry a positive action, we must develop here a positive vision.” These words are not mere counsel, but a map for the human spirit. For all deeds are born first in the heart and the mind; the hand does only what the soul has already dreamed. Without vision, the body stumbles. Without clarity of hope, the path of action dissolves into confusion. Therefore, the teaching is eternal: what you imagine, you become; what you see inwardly, you will one day see outwardly.

This saying is forged from ancient wisdom and human struggle. To act with goodness, courage, or justice, one must first see these things within. If the mind is clouded by despair, envy, or hatred, the actions that follow will bear the same poison. But if the soul cultivates positive vision—the image of peace, the dream of compassion, the picture of harmony—then the deeds that spring forth will be seeds of healing. It is not enough to desire change in the world; one must prepare the inner soil where the dream can take root.

History itself offers luminous examples. Consider the journey of Mahatma Gandhi. Before he led his people in great marches and acts of nonviolence, he first cultivated within himself a vision of a free India built not on vengeance, but on peace. His actions were mighty, yet they were guided by the vision of truth and non-harm. When he faced prison, ridicule, and violence, it was the clarity of this inner sight that carried him forward. Without it, his movement would have crumbled; with it, he awakened a nation and inspired the world.

So too must we learn: vision precedes action as the dawn precedes the day. One who acts without vision is like a warrior swinging a sword in darkness, striking wildly, striking blindly. But one who first envisions the battle won, who sees the path to victory with calm eyes, will guide their sword with purpose. The same is true of the farmer, the builder, the artist, the leader. All lasting creation begins not in the hands but in the mind’s eye, where the dream is shaped.

This teaching demands discipline. For the mind is easily corrupted by fear, anger, or despair. When we allow such thoughts to dominate, our vision becomes distorted, and thus our actions become destructive. The wise therefore guard the gates of their inner world. They meditate, they reflect, they choose carefully the images they nourish within. They remember that a single seed of positive vision can grow into a forest of positive action, but the seed must first be planted with care.

The lesson for us is clear: if you wish to change your life, your family, or your world, begin first with the vision you hold in your heart. Ask yourself: What am I seeking? What future do I see? Shape that vision until it shines. Let it be guided by compassion, not by fear. Then, when the time for action comes, you will move with clarity, strength, and harmony, as the archer whose eyes never leave the target.

Practical steps follow from this wisdom. Each day, spend a moment envisioning what is noble and good. Write down your hopes, that they may grow sharper. Surround yourself with words, images, and companions that nourish positive vision. When challenges come, do not act from panic or despair; pause, return to the vision, and let it guide your steps. In this way, your actions will be aligned with the highest truth, and your life will become a stream of peace flowing into the world.

Thus the words of the Dalai Lama endure: “In order to carry a positive action, we must develop here a positive vision.” Let it be remembered by all who walk this earth: the deeds of tomorrow are written today in the images we nurture within. Keep your inner sight clear, let your vision be radiant, and your actions will shine forth as blessings for generations to come.