Answer: When you have bodhichitta in your heart, then everyone is your friend. Everyone is special. We should see everyone as our best friend. What is bodhichitta about? Bodhichitta is the union of loving-kindness, compassion, and profound wisdom. When these three are joined together, that is bodhichitta. When we have the view and attitude of bodhichitta, we see everyone as a friend.

This does not mean we’re going to let anyone exploit us, or use our energy to do something that is hurtful to others. Bodhichitta moves with clear intelligence and knows the nature of samsara. We pay attention to our perceptions so that we’re guided by wisdom. There may be some people who try to take advantage of this kindness, but seeing others as dear friends is a very special practice that will support the growth of bodhichitta.