The Delusional Series
Compiled according to the teachings of the Master
Author: Fafu
The Delusional Series: Part 11 –34 Thought 4
Let’s elevate this discussion to a higher level by incorporating the four immeasurables of loving-kindness, compassion, sympathetic joy, and equanimity. We can simply act in accordance with these virtues without overthinking. Whatever aligns with these four immeasurables, we do. Whatever doesn’t, we avoid. We focus solely on cultivating these qualities, making them our guiding principles. We allow our delusions to run their course while we remain steadfast in our practice. However, it’s important to acknowledge that we may still be influenced by these delusions, especially at the beginning. It’s like trying to break a long-standing habit, such as getting dressed in the morning. It may feel unnatural at first, but with persistent effort, it becomes possible. Even if others may think we are strange or foolish for trying to overcome our delusions, we must persevere. Eventually, through consistent practice, the energy that fuels these delusions will be depleted, and they will cease to arise. Until then, it’s important to recognize that delusions can only lead to suffering. They can cause us to make foolish mistakes and bring shame upon ourselves. You can verify this through personal experience.
In essence, it’s quite simple. Just stop feeding your delusions. Whether you choose to practice precepts, cultivate the four immeasurables, or engage in meditation, the key is to stop nurturing your negative thoughts. You can simply sit and observe your thoughts without engaging them. By doing so, you’ll gradually starve them of the attention they crave. Eventually, you’ll realize that these uncontrollable delusions are merely the result of habitual thinking patterns. In other words, your uncontrolled thoughts are simply the product of your controlled thoughts taken to an extreme.
However, the uncontrollable and controllable aspects of our minds often intertwine and influence each other. Our controlled thoughts can quickly become uncontrolled as we feed them with new information. To break free from this cycle, we must decisively disconnect from these habitual thought patterns. It’s easy to slip back into old habits, so we must remain vigilant and resist the urge to indulge in idle thoughts. Instead, we should focus on adhering to ethical principles, such as the five precepts, ten precepts, bodhisattva precepts, or the cultivation of the four immeasurables. By consistently acting in accordance with these principles, we can gradually weaken the influence of our uncontrolled thoughts. This is particularly challenging in our current era, but the rewards for our efforts are great.
The reason why the merit of overcoming these delusions is so great is that these delusions have become incredibly powerful due to our constant indulgence. If we can successfully subdue these delusions, the same effort can be applied to any endeavor, ensuring effortless success. To understand the destructive nature of delusions, observe their inevitable failure. Whether you pursue good or bad, these delusions will ultimately lead to disappointment. By closely examining the patterns of failure caused by delusions, one can truly appreciate the magnitude of their destructive power. It is truly terrifying to realize how we have been sabotaging our own lives.