Our common understanding is that the best way to live is to try to avoid all pain and just be comfortable. A more interesting and joyful approach is to develop our curiosity, not caring whether the object of our inquisitiveness is bitter or sweet.
Self-cultivation means steady gradual progress. To stop prematurely would be more disastrous than not to have started at all. We may see very little happening, but be patient and we will see what the accumulation of our effort yields.
We are taught to distinguish good from evil, agreement from disagreement, causing us conflict and anger. Having no desires and accepting things as they are will give you peace, but you must share this idea with others, for we are all part of them and they are all part of us.
After finishing your own tasks use your strength in the service of others. Help where help is needed but weigh carefully how much you can accept without doing harm. Only when this delicacy of feeling exists can you give yourself unconditionally, without hesitation.
Quote: If you can’t explain it to a six-year-old, you don’t understand it yourself.