Virtue
Ãcariya Mun insisted that in order to live in comfort a monk must
comport himself like a worthless old rag. If he can rid himself of the
conceit that his virtuous calling makes him somebody special, then he
will feel at ease in all of his daily activities and personal associations, for
genuine virtue does not arise from such assumptions. Genuine virtue
arises from the self-effacing humility and forthright integrity of one who
is always morally and spiritually conscientious. Such is the nature of
genuine virtue: without hidden harmful pride, that person is at peace
with himself and at peace with the rest of the world wherever he goes.
The ascetic practice of wearing only robes made from discarded cloth
serves as an exceptionally good antidote to thoughts of pride and self-
importance.
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