Religions & Spiritual Traditions  Falun Gong FAQs  FAQ
What does the motto “Truthfulness, Compassion, Forbearance” mean in practice?

Holding fast to “Truthfulness, Compassion, Forbearance” in day-to-day life can feel like weaving three golden threads into every action. Truthfulness isn’t just about avoiding lies—it’s about being genuine, even when it’s easier to dodge the truth. In practice, that looks like speaking up honestly at work, admitting mistakes instead of sweeping them under the rug, and refusing to exaggerate achievements just to shine brighter.

Compassion lights the way when the world seems a bit too chilly. Lending an ear to a stressed coworker, volunteering at a local shelter, or simply pausing to share a smile with a stranger can turn compassion from a lofty ideal into concrete kindness. Around the globe, Falun Gong practitioners have stepped up during crises—handing out masks during the pandemic, organizing food drives, or offering free meditation classes to schools—showing that caring hearts can change neighborhoods.

Forbearance, often translated as endurance or tolerance, calls for keeping a stiff upper lip in the face of adversity. When frustration simmers during a long commute or someone’s words cut deeper than expected, choosing patience over retaliation is the real test. Picture someone stuck in traffic who resists the urge to honk, instead practicing a few deep breaths. Or an online debate where, rather than firing back with insults, one listens quietly, seeking common ground. That calm strength ripples outward, often disarming tension before it has a chance to spark.

A very human example: during recent gatherings at the United Nations in New York, practitioners quietly meditated in solidarity with those facing persecution. Their serene presence, rooted in these three principles, sends a powerful message—true change rarely needs a loudspeaker. By walking the talk, fair-minded dialogue replaces bitter arguments, and everyday acts of kindness stack up until they look a lot like a brighter world. It turns out, living this motto isn’t a one-off sprint; it’s a marathon of small, consistent steps that, layer by layer, build something truly lasting.