Liberation from ego is what we shramanas are seeking, O Exalted One. If I were your disciple, O Venerable One, I'm afraid it might befall me that my ego would be pacified and liberated only seemingly, only illusorily, that in reality it would survive and grow great, for then I would make the teaching, my discipleship, my love for you, and the community of the monks into my ego! Hermann Hesse
About This Quote

Liberation from ego is what Venerable Hsuan Hua sought. When he was young he wanted to be a monk. He had the desire to be free of his ego and live freely, that is to say without any attachment or clinging. We all want to be free of our ego, but most of the time we are not able to give up its control.

When we are attached to things, it is hard to let go. If you are attached to something, you are not free. It would seem that only those who have no attachment are truly free, but this is not true.

We have attachment for many things throughout our lives, but if we are able to understand this attachment, we can use it as a tool for liberation.

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