To a distressed person who came to him for help the Master said, “Do you really want a cure?”
“If I did not, would I bother to come to you?”
“Oh yes, most people do.”
“What for?”
“Not for a cure. That’s painful. For relief.”
To his disciples the Master said, “People who want a cure, provided they can have it without pain, are like those who favour progress, provided they can have it without change.”
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When one of the disciples announced his intention of teaching others Truth, the Master proposed a test: “Give a discourse that I myself shall be present at to judge if you are ready.”
The discourse was an inspiring one. At the end of it, a beggar came up to the speaker, who stood up and gave the man his cloak — to the edification of the assembly.
Later the Master said, “Your words were full of unction, son, but you are not yet ready.”
“Why not?” said the dispirited disciple.
“For two reasons: You did not give the man a chance to voice his need. And you are not above impressing others with your virtue.”
— Anthony de Mello
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