I’m having a bit of a problem reconciling two concepts.
The first concept is that one should equanimously observe all thoughts, emotions and sensations, letting them arise and pass away by themselves. When I succeed in applying this it is possible to achieve great calmness no matter what is going on in life, so I know this to be good guidance.
The second principle is that of being your own master. Reality is how you perceive what’s going on. This is s matter of choice as I’ve learned lately ; choosing to be happy works but it takes a lot of energy to keep applying this when times are difficult. But I know it works.
The problem is that the first principle implies non-action, only observing. The second principle implies an active choice. I’m not sure how to apply this together. If I figure it out I will post it.