The Great Way is not difficult for those who have no preferences. When love and hate are both absent everything becomes clear and undisguised. Make the smallest distinction, however, and heaven and earth are set infinitely apart. If you wish to see the truth then hold no opinion for or against. The struggle of what one likes and what one dislikes is the disease of the mind.

Summary

This quote, attributed to the Chinese philosopher and poet Seng-ts'an, emphasizes the idea that reaching the ultimate truth or "the Great Way" becomes effortless when one lets go of their preferences and attachments. By letting go of love and hate, and withholding judgment, clarity and authenticity emerge. However, the quote cautions that even the smallest distinction or personal bias can create a vast separation between opposing forces. The struggle between preferences and opinions is seen as detrimental to the mind, highlighting the importance of cultivating a state of non-judgment and impartiality in order to see the truth.

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