Proposition

One cannot change oneself, but one can realise oneself.
Hui-Neng* called Selfrealisation, the realisation of one’s own mind essence.
(*Sixth Patriarch of Chan Buddhism)

One cannot change oneself, but one can realise oneself. Hui-Neng* called Selfrealisation, the realisation of one’s own mind essence. (*Sixth Patriarch of Chan Buddhism)
Wrong. People change themselves all the time. Just look at someone who has lost alot of weight and kept it off. They've fundamentally changed their own personality and self-assessment. Just because something was said a long time ago, and stated in vague terms using the term "one" doesn't mean there's actually any wisdom being espoused.
realize oneself.
What does that mean? What does that feel like?
realize oneself.
What does that mean? What does that feel like?
For Hui Neng`s interpretation see chancenter.org/cmc/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/MindDharma1.pdf
realize oneself.
What does that mean? What does that feel like?
For Hui Neng`s interpretation see chancenter.org/cmc/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/MindDharma1.pdf This is a discussion group. We'd prefer you interpret it yourself and give your assessmemt of it. We all have too much to read already. If you have a point to make, please make it in your own words.
One cannot change oneself, but one can realise oneself. Hui-Neng* called Selfrealisation, the realisation of one’s own mind essence. (*Sixth Patriarch of Chan Buddhism)
I think the modern parallel to this is : "Know Thyself", which is good advice because only by being aware of what 'makes you tick' can you institute real change. By becoming aware of your strengths and weaknesses you are in a better position to judge what will work and not work for you. So I think your statement that you cannot change yourself, but can realize yourself, is very apposite and very wise. I was a tad disappointed about some of the replies you received because I think what you said is very valuable and informed. Ancient wisdom should always be respected because it has been wrought out of experience and wisdom.

Thank you Brother !
No time to complain - got to work :slight_smile:

One cannot change oneself, but one can realise oneself. Hui-Neng* called Selfrealisation, the realisation of one’s own mind essence. (*Sixth Patriarch of Chan Buddhism)
I think the modern parallel to this is : "Know Thyself", which is good advice because only by being aware of what 'makes you tick' can you institute real change. By becoming aware of your strengths and weaknesses you are in a better position to judge what will work and not work for you. So I think your statement that you cannot change yourself, but can realize yourself, is very apposite and very wise. I was a tad disappointed about some of the replies you received because I think what you said is very valuable and informed. Ancient wisdom should always be respected because it has been wrought out of experience and wisdom. What if a majority of the population doesn't agree with your assessment of the value of "ancient wisdom"? There is plenty in ancient wisdom no one would waant imposed on him or herself, including you. The phrase "ancient wisdom" tells us nothing. There are countless forms of "ancient wisdom". Which form are you suggesting? Tell us specifically what you mean by it. Would it by any chance include slavery, torture and execution? Those were elements of "ancient wisdom" too. I suspect you are defning "ancient wisdom" as the elements you agree with.

Being great enough to pervade the whole universe, mind should not be busied with trivialities and idle talks