Understanding the intricate movements of the mind

“You may know the superficial layers of your mind; but to know the unconscious motives,
drives, fears, the hidden residue of tradition, of racial inheritance—to be aware of all that
and to give it close attention is very hard work, it demands a great deal of energy. Most of
us are unwilling to give close attention to these things; we have not the patience to go into
ourselves step by step, inch by inch, so that we begin to know all the subtleties, the
intricate movements of the mind. But it is only the mind which has understood itself in its
totality and is therefore incapable of self-deception—it is only such a mind that can free
itself of its past and go beyond its own movements within the field of time. This is not very
difficult, but it requires a great deal of hard work.”

- J. Krishnamurti