9781945186240

1. Our inward power, when it obeys nature, reacts to events by
accommodating itself to what it faces—to what is possible. It needs no
specific material. It pursues its own aims as circumstances allow; it turns
obstacles into fuel. As a fire overwhelms what would have quenched a
lamp. What’s thrown on top of the conflagration is absorbed, consumed by
it—and makes it burn still higher.
2. No random actions, none not based on underlying principles.
3. People try to get away from it all—to the country, to the beach, to the
mountains. You always wish that you could too. Which is idiotic: you can
get away from it anytime you like.
By going within.
Nowhere you can go is more peaceful—more free of interruptions—
than your own soul. Especially if you have other things to rely on. An
instant’s recollection and there it is: complete tranquillity. And by
tranquillity I mean a kind of harmony.
So keep getting away from it all—like that. Renew yourself. But keep it
brief and basic. A quick visit should be enough to ward off all < . . . > and
send you back ready to face what awaits you.
What’s there to complain about? People’s misbehavior? But take into
consideration:
• that rational beings exist for one another;
• that doing what’s right sometimes requires patience;
• that no one does the wrong thing deliberately;
• and the number of people who have feuded and envied and hated
and fought and died and been buried.
. . . and keep your mouth shut.