‘Always remember, child,’ her first teacher had impressed on her, ‘that to think bad thoughts is really the easiest thing in the world. If you leave your mind to itself it will spiral you down into ever-increasing unhappiness. To think good thoughts, however, requires effort. This is one of the things that need disipline –training- is about. So train your mind to dwell on sweet perfumes, the touch of this silk, tender raindrops against the shoji, the curve of the flower arrangement, the tranquillity of dawn. Then, at length, you won’t have to make such a great effort and you will be of value to yourself.’”
– James Clavell, Shōgun
Credits: Photograph: mlisowsk, Yoshijima-ke, Yoshijima heritage house, Takayama, Japan. Quote: The Poet Master
Live & Learn 
A lovely quote from a great classic…Good morning Dave.
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Good morning Mimi. Shogun is a classic, one of the earliest novels I had read and still one of my favorites…
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I always did like the sound of rain — so calming.
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Yes, it is…
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OMG. Clavell is my sensei. All this time I thought it was Buddha.
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Clavell is on my short list of fav’s….
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it will become as much a natural part of you as your fingerprint.
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Yes…
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beautiful.
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It is Vicki. Hit me the same way…broadside.
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Always choose optimism over pessimism. Really enjoyed his novels.
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Yes to both Peggy…
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Sheer gorgeousness♥
Love, love this post ~ and great words of counsel!
Thank you for sharing and do take care, too 🙂
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Thanks B*. Loved it too…
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Inspired, DK, inspired! 🙂
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Me too Lori. Me too.
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Simply beautiful words and advice we can use everyday.
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Yes, so true.
On Sun, Jul 27, 2014 at 3:18 PM, Live & Learn wrote:
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