The path of practice can never be free of obstacles. Where there are people, there are disputes, annoyances, conflicts and all sorts of disagreeable circumstances. Rather than expecting a smooth path, you ought to strengthen your will power when confronting difficulties. Remember, when your attention does not focus on adversities, you will neither cling to them nor be vexed by them. Then, you will be able to practice with an unfettered mind.
~ Analects of Master Kuang-ch'in