We are here to study ourselves no matter what we are doing, eating, talking, whatever. Studying ourselves is all the books we need. The reason we have books is to encourage us to understand this simple teaching. All the wisdom about how we cause ourselves to suffer, and all the wisdom about how joyful and vast our minds are, can only be found in our own experiences.
Everyday identity, family, career or whatever is like the outer part of the wheel. The inner hub of the wheel is consciousness; this is what holds us together. The center of the hub is emptiness, which is open to universal reality. The way to connect the hub to the rim is by introspection; this way you find out what is lacking and then you can fulfill it.
The ancients looked at new things as to the good they could cause, but also the harm they might bring. Before adopting new inventions this careful study was applied. These ancients joined body, mind and spirit in all things they did, this eliminating all confusion.
We should not try to combat our own faults directly. The longer and harder we fight them, the more victorious they will be. Fighting our faults by making progress in the good is the only way. Take care not to become hardened and obstinate, remain receptive to impressions by continuous self-examination.
Quote: Do not rely on others for your happiness.