04 Overcoming Defilements

Ajahn Mun maintained unbroken mindfulness through all daily activities, sleeping little and rising instantly. He ate only almsfood, reflecting on its repulsive nature to counter craving. Destroying defilements is extraordinarily difficult—they tend to overpower the unwary—yet the Buddha and his Arahant disciples conquered them. Ajahn Mun matched their resolve, developing concentration and insight in tandem, though lack of a teacher sometimes cost him days of struggle.