Self-cultivation takes us just as we are with our confusion and our sanity, it gives us time alone with ourselves. In time it teaches you to accept who you are, as you are, an unconditional friendliness with ourselves, a simple direct relationship with the way we are.
It is only the depth of our character that determines the profundity with which we face life. We can add to our character each day, or we can fritter away our energies on distractions. This increased character will give us a strength to accomplish anything we want.
The ancients used the term “not trying”, this doesn’t mean we should accept our current situation. They identify trying with forcing. To act without trying means to act without coercion. They suggest being as an alternative, to be that totally human person that our nature craves.
In difficult times, if you are unable to exert influence because the fundamentals are all wrong and fruitful activity is rendered impossible, do not accept dazzling offers to take part in public activity. Hide your work and withdraw into seclusion and wait for the times to change.
Quote: The future does not just happen. It is made. And we are its authors.