Page 65 - Extinguishment of self, in search of dhamma
P. 65
do not worry too much, then we will be able to separate between “the mind” and “thoughts”. Then, thoughts can be unwholesome, but the mind does not become unwholesome. Think about things that upset us, but the mind does not follow along. This is the thing that tells us that external natural conditions are unwholesome but the mind does not become unwholesome. Here, dhamma consequences (vipaka) are unwholesome but the mind is not engulfed by these unwholesome dhamma consequences. The mind that experiences remains peaceful and resplendent. See—totally different!
What are the natural conditions of dhamma consequences? For example, if we constantly see bad images, undesirable images, whenever we see them we become irritated. This is how external natural conditions become a dhamma consequence for us. But, when we contemplate in this way—the next time we see these images, we become equanimous, not owing along with these natural conditions. The mind is more peaceful, more resplendent. This is wilful contemplation. Then, we will continue to let go. Therefore, when relating natural conditions—relate that when we see them, they cease very quickly. Now, when we see them, we hardly feel anything, we feel neutral. We see, but we remain comfortable and peaceful.
See, this is the thing that indicates to us that we are able to detach or relinquish much easier. If we do not
57