Ordinarily, people criticized others only based on hearsay. They readily accepted one-sided statements without realizing that the truth is still not clear. When it comes to talking about oneself, they would omit all flaws but exaggerate on merits. A practitioner with intention to be just had better avoid talking about personal matters. Carefully remain silent on such topics so as to stay free from entanglements. Instead, the attention and energy thus saved could be well spent on Dharma activities.

Written in Chinese on November 2, 2004
Translated on November 8, 2004
El Cerrito, California