Effort 

Earlier, in the discussion on the art of archery, I brought up the importance of Effort. Effort also plays an important role in my painting practice. To improve my painting skill, I often go and look at other artists` work. I will stand in front of a painting, study the brush strokes, and locate its essence. Sometimes a seemingly casual placement of a dab of paint captures the exact spirit of the object painted. One must work hard if one wants to make progress on whatever one is studying. If you are studying painting, go and look at other painters` work, then get active and start experimenting yourself. When you integrate your hands, heart, and mind, your paintings will come alive. Do not be perfunctory in whatever you are studying. Approach Buddhist study the same way ?vigorously using your body, mind, and heart ?and you will definitely succeed. Effort is to learn and work vigorously to make progress on the path.