“This momentum of practice leads toward freedom from the cycle of birth and death. We haven’t escaped from that cycle because we still insist on craving and desiring. We don’t commit unwholesome or immoral acts, but all that means is that we are living in accordance with the dhamma of morality. For instance, there is a chant in which people ask that all beings not be separated from the things that they love and are fond of. If you think about it, this is very childish. It’s the way of people who still can’t let go. This is the nature of human desire—desire for things to be other than the way they are: wishing for longevity, hoping that there will be no death or sickness. Such are people’s hopes and desires. So when you tell them that their unfulfilled desires cause them suffering, it clobbers them right over the head. But what can they say in reply? Nothing, because it’s the truth! You’re pointing right at their desires. Everyone has desires and wants them fulfilled. Nobody is willing to stop; nobody really wants to escape. So our practice must be patiently refined. Those who practice steadfastly, without deviation or slackness, and have a gentle and restrained manner, always persevering with constancy—those are the ones who will know. No matter what arises, they will remain firm and unshakable.”
— Ajahn Chah (from Food for the Heart: The Collected Teachings of Ajahn Chah)
