The Opportune Occasion for Catching the Thief

For a practitioner who has attained a certain degree of awakening, frequently turning the light inward/reflecting back upon oneself will reveal that the deep-seated "self" within the mind always tries to pop its head out. This is a good thing—those without awakening cannot detect it. When you notice this "self" popping its head out, observe it: see where it actually comes from and where it goes, how it arises, how it ceases, how it operates, what its mental activities are like, and what purpose it has.

Observe in this way constantly, and there will surely be major discoveries. For one who practices like this, do not deliberately suppress yourself; let it pop its head out, then seize it and put it on trial. Once you clarify its origins and whereabouts, the gains will be great.

Later, when it comes to eliminating afflictions, do the same: do not deliberately suppress afflictions. Watch where afflictions arise, swiftly seize them, and put them through a thorough trial and examination—then they can certainly be transformed.

It is still better to practice within the Sahā world; everywhere are opportunities to catch the thief. As long as you can catch the thief, you can recognize him, and your own family treasure will no longer be lost.