The end of effort (2)

Let us remind ourselves that none of the virtues—love, forgiveness, generosity, courage et al—require any effort. The only thing effort can do is turn them into a religion.

The end of effort

Effort happens when the mind fights with itself, when two inimical desires feud with one another, e.g. “Do it!” “Don’t want to!” No natural process involves a descent into civil war. Politicians like to say they’re working hard. A damaged planet pleads: Stop that!   

The virtues

Peace, joy, love, abundance—these are realizations, not achievements. On the inner journey, effort is impedimental.

Awakening

It takes no time to wake up. Neither does it require any effort.

The best a man can be

Men are intrinsically good. If I don’t know this from the inside out, I’ll try to be good. But trying is unnecessary. The best a man can be is who he already is.