Cattāri Brahmavihārā

I am still working on memorizing the Dhammapada and this was the verse for the day two days ago. I am uncertain that I can convey why it struck me but it did. Perhaps it is due to its uncompromising message: if you want to overcome Mara, you can’t do so by going easy on yourself. In fact, you have to be disciplined and energetic if you hope to make any progress at all.

Interestingly enough, today is an Uposatha day and I can think of no better verse for it. So, rather than giving myself a “break” and giving in to the urge to indulge the senses, I need to gather my forces and make an effort to overcome my defilements.