Shoyoroku - Case 45: Four Phrases from the Engaku Sutra

As I am always in search of further self-awareness, I somehow came across a questionnaire on Oprah.com. It's called "What's Next For You?" Here are my answers:

1. How have my parent's expectations affected my choices?
Often hindered me from doing what I knew in my heart was right for me.

2. What are my assumptions about money?
It buys stuff, but is also a gateway to great influence and power to help others.

3. With whom should I surround myself?
Passionate, ambitious, sober folk.

4. How much power does my environment have over me?
A LOT. The energy it holds can make me emotional!

5. How have I been trapped by success?
Any success that I've had has come with certain expectations that I feel I am not able to
live up to.

6. Am I willing to spend years before letting my dream manifest itself?
I've spent years with nothing to look forward to, so I think I can live with hope for a few
years.

7. What assumptions did I make when I was young about what I'm good at or not good at?
I assumed that I was good at science because I (i.e. my family) wanted to be a doctor.

8. Am I afraid of looking inward?
Never. It's the only way I can grow and realize where I'm going.

9. Am I willing to spend years looking for an answer?
I have been and I will keep searching.

10. What am I naturally curious about?
People.

The Engaku Sutra says:
"At all times, you do not raise the delusive mind.
 When there are all kinds of illusory thoughts, you do not extinguish them.
 Dwelling in the delusory state of mind, you do not add understanding.
 Where there is no understanding, you do not distinguish the truth."