<iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fpermalink.php%3Fstory_fbid%3Dpfbid0ZbopcBRaZ4XGqeEbaE4RYXLdKurvVHvgceAZ3w51c8KCckcbXB7UJpQMuchkT8dFl%26id%3D100033165156246&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="283" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe> English --- [[To Contemplate|To contemplate]] means to simply fixate your mind on a single object. This is the essence of contemplation. There is a common misconception in Asian Buddhism that contemplation involves dissecting or analyzing. On the contrary, "Guan (觀)" means to just look. It is a steady, piercing gaze—much like the intense focus you might use if you were trying to stare someone down, but directed inward. Self-Mastery is the ability to remain at peace, natural, and at ease. You are at peace because you do not feel threatened. You are natural because you are not trying to impress anyone or draw attention to yourself. Whether people praise you or criticize you, you remain unperturbed. You pull your energy inward and hold it there. No matter what happens around you—whether it is a tornado, a thunderstorm, or loud music—you remain centered and calm.