Some men claim they are too late in discerning their selfish desires and lack the strength to conquer them.
Other men say that although they have developed a keen perception of their selfish desires, nevertheless fail to withstand the temptations of the flesh.
Therefore, we say that such power of perception is like a bright pearl with which we can spy out the demons in our hearts, and the strength out of a firm will is a splendid sword that can drive out those same demons. We must never allow either our perception or our strength to diminish.
胜私制欲之功，有曰识不早力不易者，有曰识得破忍不过者，盖识是一颗照魔的明珠，力是一把斩魔的慧剑，两不可少也。
Notes
The primal barrier to restraining selfish desires:
Failing to see their peril while lacking the fortitude to resist — thus being led by craving.
The deeper struggle:
Knowing the wrong yet succumbing — a chasm between awareness and action.
- Cognitive insight reveals why to restrain;
- Practical willpower enables how to achieve it.
These twin engines must fire as one to conquer desire.
Victory lies not in eliminating desire, but in harnessing its energy.
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