WORLD SCRIPTURE
A Comparative Anthology of Sacred Texts
CHAPTER 13
Self-Cultivation and Spiritual Growth
A responsible life is not realized in a moment. Throughout a
lifetime, effort must be invested continually for spiritual growth and
self-development. A growing and fragile self, like any growing thing,
requires cultivation. Good character is realized through constant
cultivation of goodness. In particular, a mature person will have
cultivated an attitude of sincerity, a pure heart, and a measure of
self-control. The last few sections describe virtues which are required
on the way: a proper start, heedfulness and vigilance during the journey,
and perseverance to finally reach the goal.
