Gentle Words, Gentle Face (Infinite Life Sutra)
Buddhist Wisdom
— Infinite Life Sutra, Ch. 33 (Xia Lianju edition), Childing translation
"Fathers and children, brothers and sisters… should respect and love one another… Let your words and your face always be gentle, and never go against one another."
The Buddha teaches that a family should be held together by respect and love, not resentment. Gentle speech and a kind face toward your parents keep small irritations from growing into lasting hurt.
The next time you talk with your parents, check your face as well as your tone: relax your expression and answer in a soft voice, even if you disagree.
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