The first step in the mental training is to become the…
““The first step in the mental training is to become the master of external things. He who is addicted to worldly pleasures, however learned or ignorant he may be, however high or low his social position may be, is a servant to mere things. He cannot adapt the external world to his own end, but he adapts himself to it. He is constantly employed, ordered, driven by sensual objects. Instead of taking possession of wealth, he is possessed by wealth. Instead of drinking liquors, he is swallowed up by his liquors. Balls and music bid him to run mad. Games and shows order him not to stay at home. Houses, furniture, pictures, watches, chains, hats, bonnets, rings, bracelets, shoes—in short, everything has a word to command him. How can such a person be the master of things? To Ju (Na-kae) says: "There is a great jail, not a jail for criminals, that contains the world in it. Fame, gain, pride, and bigotry form its four walls. Those who are confined in it fall a prey to sorrow and sigh for ever." To””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote warns that being enslaved by material desires prevents true mastery over life; one must control external temptations rather than be controlled by them.
In simple terms: Being owned by possessions stops self‑mastery.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate inner freedom over external cravings.
Themes
self‑control
materialism
mastery
attachment
freedom
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- personal development
- spiritual practice
- daily mindfulness
- financial independence
- relationship boundaries
Key Concepts
Stoicism
detachment
inner discipline
Questions to Reflect On
- What external desire dominates your life?
- How can you reclaim autonomy from it?
A Different Perspective
The advice may overlook systemic constraints that limit personal agency.