The subtlest and most dangerous trap is that we start seeing ourselves in terms of having made some spiritual attainment. Enlightened, awakened, more evolved - this is the way we set up the image and foster separation and judgment toward others. However incredibly subtle it may be as masked by humility or compassion, still a form of ego clinging. At a very subtle level, it is exactly the same self, that constant questioning - not only about motives but also assumptions - and real deep humility before the unknown: that's what practice leading finally to total liberation demands. I realize how important it is for me to shed my past experiences and their numerous influences, just as a snake sheds its skin. To borrow the words of the wise Lord Buddha, ‘just as a snake sheds its skin'.

I came to realize this fact, and it acts as a springboard toward immense appreciative recognition that earnest, appreciative gratitude fosters lasting truths-and humility. In other words, inspired by Lord Buddha’s analogy between humans and snakes shedding skin, I eventually discovered how constant change leads to deep appreciation which in turn encourages me to believe that practicing thankfulness reveals enduring realities-and humility.