230317 What I learned in my studies this morning 3
Mental slips causing
Cascades of trying troubles.
Get it together.
Thoughts:
“I must not [assent]. [Assent] is the mind-killer. [Assent] is the little-death that brings total obliteration. I will face my [impression]. I will permit it to pass over me and through me. And when it has gone past I will turn the inner eye to see its path. Where the [impression] has gone there will be nothing. Only I will remain.” ~ [adapted from] Frank Herbert, Dune
Thoughts:
“I must not [assent]. [Assent] is the mind-killer. [Assent] is the little-death that brings total obliteration. I will face my [impression]. I will permit it to pass over me and through me. And when it has gone past I will turn the inner eye to see its path. Where the [impression] has gone there will be nothing. Only I will remain.” ~ [adapted from] Frank Herbert, Dune
I often think of the original version of this quote when I manage to stop myself from assenting to a first impression, impulse, or emotion. When I successfully prevent myself from giving in to a sudden rage or shame or lust or fear, and I make myself pause and reflect before judging what to do next, this is what I have in mind.
Then I can face the situation with clarity and purpose. I can choose how I act rather than reacting out of instinct. If my impulse and my considered opinion are the same, that's fine.
The point is to actively use my reason and decide what to do, following the path of Nature and using wisdom, justice, courage, and temperance to plan the way which will best preserve and encourage excellence of character.
Today's Meditation:
Today's Meditation II:
Today's Meditation:
Today's Meditation II:
Today's Meditation III:
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Please note that I am not saying I agree or disagree with what is posted above. It is merely a recording of what I read this morning.