Training to endure sun and rain is a minor matter. What must be trained in far more earnestly is the endurance of conflict with others and the endurance of one’s own defilements — these are considerably more difficult.
Being scolded without becoming angry — that is not so hard. But being praised without smiling — now that is truly difficult.
For it is precisely in smiling at praise that one begins to grow complacent, and from there one may lose oneself entirely.
And when one works, one will inevitably encounter money — and it is money that leads people astray.
If one cannot endure one’s defilements, one will come undone at precisely this point. Enduring people and enduring one’s defilements — these are what one gains through the experience of work.
February 7th. 2019
