|
"What is the reason, the basis, for self-deception? How many of us are actually aware that we are
deceiving ourselves? Before we can answer the question 'What is self-deception?,' must we not be
aware that we are deceiving ourselves?...We think we are capable of thinking very clearly,
pursposefully and directly; and are we aware that, in this process of thinking, there is self deception?...
The seeker is always imposing this deception upon himself; no one can impose it upon him; he himself does it. We create deception and then we become slaves to it. The fundamental factor of self-deception is this constant desire to be something in this world and the world hereafter... So we begin to deceive ourselves the moment there is this urge to be, to become or to achieve. That is a very difficult thing for the mind to be free from. That is one of the basic problems of our life. Is it possible to live in this world and be nothing? Then only is there freedom from all deception, because then only is the mind not seeking a result, the mind is not seeking a satisfactory answer, the mind is not seeking any form of justification, the mind is not seeking security in any form, in any relationship. That takes place only when the mind realizes the possibilities and subtleties of deception and therefore, with understanding, abandons every form of justification, security - which means the mind is capable, then, of being completely nothing. Is that possible?" The First and Last Freedom, p.121-122 |
|
"If one realizes that - not speculatively, not imaginitively or foolishly, but actually sees the
truth that any activity of the mind in its speculative search, in its philosophical groping, any
assumption, any imagination or hope is only self-deception - then what is the power, the creative
energy that brings about this fundamental transformation?"
The First and Last Freedom, p.139 |
