About Agents for the Soul: Bringing Distant Feelings Back In, Making Dreams Closer to Reality
Distant emotions are like gazing at the moon reflected in the water—they seem real, yet remain forever unattainable, unable to bring about any change. Therefore, one should draw in these distant emotions and return them to the tangible world around them.
Let 'him' observe the flowers before him, or pay attention to the small grass growing along the roadside, and from this, derive an understanding of the different life styles of flowers and grass. This can then be applied to the different joys and sorrows of people, which stem from the experiences essential to each person's life. Simultaneously, one should critically and thoughtfully restrain one's reaction to objective changes, whether it be joy or sorrow.
One should also hold onto the desire to live in the present, such as knowing the price of food and understanding the quality of vegetables—these will always be relevant. Furthermore, one should fully grasp everything in the present moment, which is more practically meaningful than simply dwelling on past regrets and missed opportunities.
It is better to draw in these distant emotions early on, so that he doesn't continue to wander aimlessly and be indecisive. The outside world is fascinating, but it's also full of hardship; one should believe that no one can simply be bestowed with good luck. 'Envy, jealousy, regret, shame…', are far better than a beautiful blessing—and one should cultivate such a habit.
Draw in these distant emotions. This will make him naturally calm and composed, serene and enlightened. He will no longer be hesitant and plagued by worries. Regardless of success or failure, each step should be taken with diligence; regardless of the amount of reward, each effort should be pursued with confidence.
Draw in these distant emotions. Let him see the way home through the bustling streets. In a world of constant movement and people, is there anything more reassuring and comforting than the warmth of home? Draw in these distant emotions, and strive to bring dreams closer to reality—layering a layer of time and dust between dreams and reality.
