When one uses a proper and bright mind to work for the public good, one will not be afraid of other people's criticism.

Students of Buddhism shouldn't be overjoyed upon hearing a few pleasant words, or get upset on hearing a few unpleasant words, because that would mean they lacked samadhi power. If you have skill in samadhi, you won't be swayed by the states of the Eight Winds. Whether you are praised or criticized would make no difference. Good or bad all would be the same to you. Does that mean you're an idiot? No. It's just that you don't discriminate as to whether something is good or bad, right or wrong.

"Isn't that being muddled?" someone asks. Are you saying that you're not muddled, that you truly understand? That has not been established! If you can remain the same amidst a myriad changes and stay unmoved within a myriad movements, being in samadhi at all times and places, then you have truly understood.

People who have genuine skill are not afraid of anything. Even if someone threatened to kill them, they wouldn't be afraid. When one uses a proper and bright mind to work for the public good, one will not be afraid of other people's criticism. It is said that, "True gold can endure the smelting of fire; a proper mind does not fear a crooked shadow." Nowadays, some people love to meddle in other people's business instead of minding their own. Such conduct is really deplorable. Everyone should reflect within to see if they have this kind of attitude.

A talk given on December 5,1985