"The Learner's Progress" by Alan James

The learner is the person who, dissatisfied with life, turns to a spiritual way. He remains a learner until he reaches enlightenment - and there can be no sudden leaps in his progress. Progress is won by reducing self-importance; this is achieved by, initially, taking the precepts, and cultivating metta and dana - and sense-restraint. Having established these, one can allay the hindrances long enough for insight to grow, until enlightenment is reached. The two essential factors in one's attitude throughout are systematic attention and earnestness of endeavour. Without the latter quality, one will find no zest in the practice - and without zest, physical and mental tranquillity will not develop, nor will concentration.

Alan James founded the House of Inner Tranquillity, along with his wife Jacqui James in 1980. He continued to teach the way to enlightenment until his retirement in 2010.   

This talk was given in September 1985