'you have go give it a try  - for a period of time'

'half a year or more'

'you have to be faithful'

These were the words from the tendai priest. peace and self examination was the topic of the dharma talk. the four positive perceptions, the four healing tools> positive image, positive words, positive feelings, positive beliefs <.

this 'wisdom' is much more complex than the simple  formula of positive thinking, taught by various coaches in the last decade or more. this wisdom goes back thousands of years. but despite all the various layers and aspects of this teaching, i was stunned by the clear demand of the teacher. "without trying it and really giving it your best, it won't work. if the mind is critical it will override the positive impacts of this teaching and the power of  the healing tools". Never before has he demanded faithfulness - he seemed logical and clear , but can i really put my trust into these perceptions and over such a long period of time? do i have the stamina to try it? do i have enough faith? will i surrender ? Am i even capable of doing so? or is my inner critical voice stronger and therefore  - probably in a subtle  way -  likely to undermine my attempts?

it doesn't matter how many questions i ask. i can only give it my best  and try. so simple. so complicated. - do not squander your life.