Sometimes we find it hard to reach goals or put effort into things we desperately want to improve. Why is this—when the wish is there? Attachment to what is meaningless or nonvirtuous might be the obstacle when the wish to change is there but effort is lacking. For example, someone might want to improve their health, but they're also attached to relaxing on the couch after work rather than exercising. Someone might deeply wish to improve their relationship, but they're also attached to playing videos games rather than spending time with their loved one.

We only have a limited amount of time to devote to what is truly important to us. A turning point comes when we decide to put energy into our most important goals. Check out this episode to discover how to clear the path to attaining what we value most.

Verse 349: In a man who is disturbed by (sensual) thoughts, whose passions are strong, and who keeps seeing objects as being pleasant, craving grows more and more. Indeed, he makes his bondage strong.

Verse 350: A man who takes delight in calming (sensual) thoughts, who is ever mindful, and meditates on the impurity (of the body, etc.) will certainly get rid (of craving); this man will cut the bond of Mara.

At the end of the discourse, the young bhikkhu attained Sotapatti Fruition."

Source

References and Links

Buddha.The Dhammapada. Translated by Gil Fronsdale. (Kindle). Shambala, Boston and London, 2011. (Link)

Buddha (1986).The Dhammapada: Verses and Stories. Translated by Daw Mya Tin, M.A. (Website). Edited by Editorial Committee, Burma Tipitaka Association Rangoon. Courtesy of Nibbana.com. For free distribution only, as a gift of dhamma.

https://www.tipitaka.net/tipitaka/dhp/verseload.php?verse=348

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