The practices of loving kindness, compassion, and equanimity offer no promise of a happy ending. These practices are not about avoiding uncertainty and fear but how we relate to discomfort. They teach us how to practice with everyday encounters and with our emotions.
Nearly all of us have fears, frustrations, and inhibitions. To overcome them takes courage and initiative. If our problem is fear and timidity, we need a friend to encourage us, give us guidance and support, but they cannot solve our problems for us. They can only encourage us to persevere.
Practicing undiscriminating virtue eliminates the illusory boundaries between yourself and others, this brings you joy and freedom. This does not mean you don’t encounter difficulties in life, but you learn to meet them calmly and openly and they become a natural part of your life.
What has been spoiled by man’s fault can be made good through man’s work. Once we know the causes of decay, we must not recoil from working diligently on them even if it is difficult. We must work tirelessly towards improving conditions in the world.
Quote: In complete stillness, a stone girl is dancing.