The difficult thing about building a personality is that, most of the time, one has the feeling of being driven by circumstances, fulfilling inevitable obligations, and not exercising free will. Because of this, one lives without giving due weight to one’s actions, and does not view routine as the consequence of a personal choice. Undoubtedly, this is the greatest psychological advantage of sadhus and sannyasis: by burning all material ties, they can no longer feel compelled to do anything, nor forced by anyone. But one does not need to be so radical to realize that, after all, personal growth comes with responsibility, and this implies the awareness that, at all times, it is possible to choose.
Something Beautiful to See Is When…
Something beautiful to see is when a mature individual, already possessing enviable merits and recognized as excellent, puts himself in the position of a complete novice in some activity and displays the humility characteristic of someone who sincerely wants to learn. It is not uncommon for him to seem to renew his life by doing so, allowing the authentic joy of being a learner again to blossom on his face. To the observer, the scene is extremely inspiring. And one is left with the certainty that life is only truly appreciated by those who allow themselves to learn continuously.
Although It Is Much More Satisfying…
Although it is much more satisfying and stimulating to be guided strictly by interest as one progresses in one’s studies, there is no doubt that sometimes this approach can lead to a feeling of stagnation. This is because, by taking the opposite approach, that is, by conducting a systematic and in-depth study in a specific area of knowledge, progress becomes all too evident. Terminology, once absorbed, becomes commonplace; more and more details are assimilated, in an act that also strengthens the basis of the discipline, which seems to become increasingly obvious. However, on this path, one usually reaches a point where one notices the great distance already accomplished from that initial stimulus that motivated interest. Then, the philosophical impulse, which is essentially synthesizing, complains about the uselessness of specialization and calls for breadth. Thus, the tendency is to adopt the previous stance. Stagnation and uselessness, therefore, are the ghosts that the student must learn to dispel.
Perhaps the Most Effective Aspect…
Perhaps the most effective aspect of Eastern tradition, centered on training individuals through a unique relationship between master and disciple, is the crystal-clear notion that takes root in the disciple’s mind, who, aware of the extent of his dependence on the master’s example, grasps the importance of being exemplary. This leads only to positive effects, and the habit is cultivated based on the certainty that only action is edifying. The disciple, imitating the master, becomes a master; he begins to teach as he has learned, and never loses the gratitude that manifests itself in the feeling that, in truth, he has done nothing but receive.