Individual role in the machine

A primary source of problems in the Machine is the cognitive/emotional makeup of the biocarbon units. A cantankerous horse pulls a wagon problematically. An uninformed sales representative complicates a purchasing decision for a customer. A greedy politician promotes legislation counter to the greater good. Each biocarbon unit brings to its tasks issues that can inhibit smooth operations of the Machine. A finely tuned machine can produce work that benefits users. A finely tuned user can benefit the Machine. The system of users and machines can enhance the quality of life. For those who wish to improve the quality of life, the path is clearly marked, but often blocked with debris. Tune yourself. Tune your machines. Pirsig wrote in Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, "the real motorcycle you're working on is you." The most successful work is done when the worker is in the right frame of mind and body. Tune yourself with right diet, right thought, right physical position and motion. Tune your machine with right tools, right knowledge, right effort. Clear the debris from your path. Buddha taught that suffering is caused by attachment to desire. When you are wanting what can't be, you will suffer, your work will suffer, the machine will not operate smoothly. When you recognize that there is debris in your path, i.e. your effort is a struggle, it is time to clear the debris that can be moved, to move around the debris that is immobile. Correct your posture. Breathe with deliberation. Reflect on self. What are you desiring? What are the obstacles? What is the next useful step you can take. Take it.

May I develop the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.