The Breadth of the Heart
Buddhism speaks of realms; Confucianism calls it the breadth of the heart. Wang Yangming believed we should let life flow naturally, acting with sincerity.
Too much attachment only creates inner obstacles. He once said, "Why dwell on past or future? It only disturbs the mind." Clinging to what’s gone or worrying about what hasn’t come narrows the heart, trapping us in our own thoughts.
Those who live in the present neither regret the past nor fear the future. With a spacious heart and a clear mind, they find true happiness. Zhuangzi said, "Emptiness brings light; blessings come to the still."
Wang added, "Weeds may need clearing, but if not cleared at once, do not let them burden your heart." Removing unnecessary worries keeps the mind peaceful.
A broad heart is not far away—it lives in the present moment. Let go of attachment, and the heart is free.