If we perceive through the filter of our referential, neurotic patterning, then our response will also be coloured by that referential, neurotic patterning.to make matters worse, if we respond in alignment with our distorted patterning, then we make that pattern even stronger, even more ingrained. However, our response, the effect, or our reaction is not predetermined – even though it may sometimes feel as though it is. We can discover the space between perception and response, action and reaction, cause and effect. Spiritual practice offers a real and potent opportunity to undermine our own patterning. We can take control of our reaction and discover freedom from patterned response.
Spacious Passion, Ngakma Nor´dzin, Aro Books worldwide, 2006, ISBN 978-0-9653948-4-0, chapter 6 Quelling the storm, pp133-134