The Buddha’s emphasis is always on choice, and his prognosis is always hopeful. He shows us the power of evil habits, then reminds us that good habits are just as strong (121–122). If we do not try to shape our lives, the conditioning of our samskaras will shape them for us, little by little; but if we do try – again, little by little, in the numberless decisions of everyday life – then any one of us can become good, as a bucket is filled drop by drop.
