Notions Can Be Destroyed

Sage Vasishtha

Already as the notions weaken, one is less affected by happiness and unhappiness, and knowledge of the unreality of the objects prevents attachment. When there is no hope, there is neither elation nor depression. The mind itself is the jiva when it is reflected in consciousness; and mind itself builds castles in the air, stretching itself, as it were, into the past, the present and the future. It is not possible to comprehend the ripples of ideation; but this much can be said: sense-experiences multiply them, and when these are given up, they cease to be. If notions are real, like the blackness of coal, then you cannot remove them; but that is not so. Hence they can be destroyed.

PS: This discourse was given by a Sage Dasura to his son. Sage Vasishtha narrates this story to Rama as a part of his instruction.