Always remember, child" her first teacher had impressed on her, "that to think bad thoughts is really the easiest thing in the world. If you leave your mind to itself it will spiral you down into ever-increasing unhappiness. To think good thoughts, however, requires effort. This is one of the things that need disipline –training- is about. So train your mind to dwell on sweet perfumes, the touch of this silk, tender raindrops against the shoji, the curve of the flower arrangement, the tranquillity of dawn. Then, at length, you won't have to make such a great effort and you will be of value to yourself,…
In this passage, the teacher conveys an important lesson about the nature of thoughts and the mind's tendency to lean towards negativity. She highlights that it's all too easy to entertain bad thoughts, which can lead to unhappiness. However, cultivating positive thoughts demands conscious effort and discipline. This contrast between the two types of thinking serves as a reminder that our mental habits can significantly influence our well-being.
The teacher emphasizes the importance of training the mind to focus on pleasant experiences and sensations, suggesting that connecting with the beauty in life can help foster a more positive outlook. By deliberately choosing to appreciate the good things around us—the scents, textures, and serene moments—we can eventually make positivity a more effortless part of our daily lives. This approach not only enhances personal happiness but also encourages a sense of self-worth.
