mind is the forerunner of all unhappy states, mind made are they, if one speaks or acts with an unskillful mind suffering will follow even as the wheel follows the hoof of the draft ox.
mind is the forerunner of all happy states, mind made are they, if one speaks or acts with a skillful mind, happiness will follow just as one's shadow that never leaves. -Verses of the Dhammapada
Not one thing have I seen that creates such suffering as an untamed, untrained, unguarded and unrestrained mind, yet not one thing have I seen that creates such happiness as a tamed, trained, guarded and restrained mind. -Buddha
Ya can't just snap your fingers and change things. Jim used to have a saying about a tree needing to take time to grow strong roots to withstand the wind. That's why the middle way is a gradual path, practice takes time and persistence. Also it is rare to find an accomplished guide, even historically there are few that have not failed. Those that succeed are not apparent to the benighted. When I think of this and the experience of this life it is like setting sail, it is a great thing to be right here right now. The practice is its own reward and how sweet it is...
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