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Too many questers are too extravagantly earnest. All this solemnity is inspired by, directed towards, and activated through the ego. That it presents itself in the Overself's name makes little difference. This excess of seriousness betrays the egotism behind it and becomes self-defeating. Better to let go. But one may feel sad without appearing lugubriously solemn. There are times when no quester can miss mourning the transiency of things, can avoid the melancholy air which surrounds recognition of the insubstantiality of life, fortune, friends, and human happiness. Yet if he is faithful to his course of meditations, the sadness should not last long nor weigh him down. It will pass as his peace revives.

-- Notebooks Category 2: Overview of Practices Involved > Chapter 1 : Ant's Long Path > # 169