| *6.) Only after long and dedicated sowing does one come to a flash of illumination. Without cause, there is no effect. 7.) Likewise, the meaning of solemnity [or sincere seriousness] is rarely understood. *8.) One may think that such an exalted state [illumination] occurs by chance, but in fact, it is achieved as the result of profound and penetrating reflection, and when it grows stronger, one finds oneself well established in a new state of consciousness. *9.) “We do not value ephemeral flashes, but do value the inextinguishable flame.” 10.) The Thinker taught that to everyone, a lantern [inner light] is given. |
| 3.) Such inner work: a.) Builds upon past accumulations. b.) Is sometimes unconscious – yet it does exist and makes illumination possible. c.) Genuine illumination not achievable by single lifetime. *4.) Certainly an outer event may provide the impetus for the opening of the “lotus,” but this flower was already beginning to bloom in the depths of the consciousness. *5.) The wonderful “lotus” opens only after much laborious effort, but people seldom realize that they themselves have cultivated this beautiful garden! |