In opening we can see how many times we have mistaken small identities and fearful beliefs for our true nature and how limiting this is. We can touch with great compassion the pain from the contracted identities that we and others have created in the world.

We must especially learn the art of directing mindfulness into the closed areas of our life.

We must look at our life without sentimentality, exaggeration or idealism. Does what we are choosing reflect what we most deeply value?

We can always begin again.

Without being aware of it, you take many things as being your identity: your body, your race, your beliefs, your thoughts.