Being reluctant to write any more on this subject, I leave it
up to those practicing meditation to discover this knowledge for
themselves – paccattaÿ – which is better than relying on someone
else’s explanation, and far more certain as well. I am wholly con-
vinced of this. No matter what is being discussed, without having
the ability to perceive such things directly with our own senses, we
will be reluctant to simply rely on another person’s description of
them. Although that person may provide us with accurate infor-
mation, there will always be certain aspects that we are bound
to doubt or take exception to, notwithstanding the fact that the
person is compassionately explaining the matter to us with a pure
heart. The problem is: we ordinary people are not pure ourselves
so we tend to balk at what we hear, hesitant to accept someone
else’s judgment. So it is better that we experience these things for
ourselves. Only then can we truly accept their validity. Then we
needn’t annoy others with our remonstrations. As the Buddha
said: All of us must accept the consequences of our own actions. We
shoulder the burden of pain and suffering and enjoy the fruits of hap-
piness that we have created for ourselves. This is absolutely right and
beautifully simple too.THE STORY OF ÃCARIYA MUN is a splendid story. Beginning from the
time he was still in lay life, he demonstrated the characteristics of
a true sage. Always conducting himself in a safe, steady manner,
he was never known to have caused any disgrace or undue trou-
ble to his parents or relatives. Having ordained as a monk, he
strove relentlessly to develop firm principles within himself and