Body impermanent like spring mist;
mind insubstantial like empty sky;
thoughts unestablished like breezes in space.
Think about these three points over and over.
-Adept Godrakpa
A questioner asked the Buddha: "I would like to know about the state of peace, the state of solitude and of quiet detachment. How does a person become calm, independent, and not wanting to grasp at anything?"
"A person does this," replied the Buddha, "by eradicating the delusion of 'I am.' By being alert and attentive, he begins to let go of cravings as they arise. But whatever he begins to accomplish, he should beware of inner pride. He must avoid thinking of himself as better than another, or worse or equal, for that is all comparison and emphasizes the self.
"The person should look for peace within and not depend on it in any other place. For when a person is quiet within, the self cannot be found. There are no waves in the depths of the ocean, it is still and unbroken. It is the same with the peaceful person. He is still, without any longing to grasp. He has let go the foundations of self and no longer builds up pride and desire."
-Sutta Nipata
A questioner asked the Buddha:
"Life seems a tangle--
An inner tangle and an outer tangle.
This generation is hopelessly tangled up.
And so I ask the Buddha this question:
Who will succeed in disentangling this tangle?"
The Buddha replied:
"When a wise one, thoughtful and good,
Develops a greater consciousness,
He will understand the tangle.
As a truth follower, ardent and wise,
He will succeed in disentangling the tangle."
-Samyutta Nikaya
The Prophet replied, "When your good endeavors bring you pleasure and your transgressions cause you anguish, you know that you are a person of faith."
-Reported by Abu Umamah