Composure

1. "The very concept of ... composure indicates power over the self, over oneself, over one's lower self, for the higher at the same time takes possession of the lower." [Facets of Agni Yoga 1956, 266]

 

2. "Power over oneself, mastery of oneself is the only way to the boundless power of the spirit." [Facets of Agni Yoga 1960, 314]

 

3. "Composure is a very complex quality. It comprises courage, patience, and compassion. But courage must not become anger, compassion should not border on hysteria, and patience must not be hypocrisy. Thus, composure is complicated, but it is imperatively needed upon entering the higher worlds. One should develop this synthesized quality with the utmost care. In schools the students should be confronted with the most unexpected circumstances. The teacher should observe the degree to which impressions are consciously assimilated. This is not the austere Spartan schooling of physical endurance and resourcefulness, it is drawing upon the heart energy in order to apprehend things with dignity. Not many persons remember composure. As soon as they pass beyond the borders of the usual they begin to display a series of strange movements, to utter needless words, and, in general, to assume an affected pose of spirit and body. …It must be remembered that in approaching Light one must carry one’s own lamp unspilled." [Fiery World I, 634]

 

4. "Composure is necessary, without it there can be no spiritual advancement." [Letters of Helena Roerich in 9 Volumes - 5. 071]

 

5. "Let it be what it is, let it be what it will be, but we need stability on the imperishable. This is the hidden basis of calmness and balance, fearlessness and self–control. Let it be what it will be, but the spirit is indestructible and cannot be destroyed. ... Consider the difficulties, and the complexities of life, and the burdens as a factor that gives strength." [Facets of Agni Yoga 1959, 238]

 

6. "No matter what happens inside or outside, the loss of composure can never be justified by anything. It is better to lose everything, but to retain power over oneself, than to gain something by losing it." [Facets of Agni Yoga 1954, 470]

 

7. "Composure can be exercised on small things among everyday life, on the most ordinary things, and especially when communicating with people." [Facets of Agni Yoga 1967, 214]

 

8. "It is especially difficult to discern behavior that is not accompanied by the usual nervous reactions of ordinary people. This is the composure of the yogi." [Agni Yoga, 381]