Perseverance and commitment to a single path
In this excerpt venerable Pomnyun Sunim delves into the challenge of managing impatience within spiritual practice.
Through a dialogue with a practitioner struggling with concentration, Pomnyun sheds light on the pitfalls of excessive striving, which he equates to the greed often associated with worldly pursuits.
Drawing parallels between the pursuit of enlightenment and the pursuit of material wealth, Pomnyun warns against the dangers of impatience and the desire for quick results.
He emphasizes the need to let go of greed and adopt a patient, steady approach to practice.
Using the example of a practitioner who continually changes methods in search of faster progress, Pomnyun underscores the importance of perseverance and commitment to a single path.
Furthermore, he cautions against practicing out of greed, suggesting that genuine spiritual growth requires accepting responsibility for past actions and their consequences.
He advocates for sincere introspection and humility, rejecting the notion of seeking shortcuts or avoiding accountability.
Ultimately, Pomnyun’s teachings promote a balanced and mindful approach to spiritual practice, one grounded in patience, acceptance, and a willingness to face challenges with humility and sincerity.
