Q: Spiritual Work sometimes appears to involve anticipation of loss.
A: Loss is a presumption based on the eg0’s perceptions and projected values. In general, the ego’s loss is illusory and instead constitutes a gain to the Self. All ego positions represent vulnerability. Their surrender results in greater inner security and pleasure in life. Eventually, one analogously feels ‘bullet-proof’ and independent of external circumstances. Even the survival of the body itself eventually becomes irrelevant for its transitoriness is accepted.
Q: But is not survival itself due to the ego’s motives and mechanisms?
A: That is also an illusion. Survival is a consequence of the Self, not the self. It is only because of the Self that the ego is of service for a prescribed period of earthly time. When the ego/mind is silenced, life goes on autonomously, paradoxically even seeing effort as effortless. All comes about as a consequence of potentiality’s emerging as actuality when conditions permit. Intention is such a condition. Eventually, even intention subsides as the will is surrendered to God.
Discovery of the Presence of God, Ch. 13, pg. 223-224
Yes this is the same Buddha message taught by Thich Nhat Kahn! Thank you