'The soul will not desire to be separated from the body
unless it becomes indifferent to the very air it breathes. All the
bodily senses are opposed to faith, for they are concerned with the
objects of this present world, while faith is concerned only with the
blessings of the life to come. Thus one pursuing the spiritual way
should never be too greatly preoccupied with beautifully branched or
shady trees, pleasantly flowing springs, flowery meadows, fine houses or
even visits to his family; neither should he recall any public honors
that he happens to have been given. He should gratefully be content with
bare necessities, regarding this present life as a road passing through
an alien land, barren of all worldly attractions. For it is only by
concentrating our mind in this way that we can keep to the road that
leads back to eternity.'
