Years of Effort Without Results

Some people make awakening a goal. They're determined to get there. They say, “I refuse to be happy until I’m awakened.” This forms an attachment and attachments are the source of suffering, which moves in the opposite direction of awakening.  Enlightenment comes from a deeper awareness of the way you are without judging it.  DeMello tells a story of a disciple who leaves his guru for the hills to attain enlightenment. Years pass, but no enlightenment; not until he gives it up.