All there is in samsara is means, the things we do. The only thing that gives you permanent, unchanging well-being is nibbana, and that’s beyond ends and means. But to get there, the means have to be good as well.

"A lot of people think, “Well, as long as I want something that’s really good, I can do whatever I want to get it.” In other words, the ends justify the means. But the Buddha said, “No, the means have to be good, too.” After all, that’s all there is in samsara — means, the things we do.

The only thing that gives you permanent, unchanging well-being is nibbana, and that’s beyond ends and means. You take that as your goal, and then when you’ve arrived, you no longer have any need for goals.

But to get there, the means have to be good as well."

~ Thanissaro Bhikkhu "Strong Through Admirable Friendship"

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