The quote “But while success and failure depend on conditions, the mind neither waxes nor wanes.” by Bodhidharma is a profound statement about the nature of human resilience and the power of the mind.

The first part of the quote, “success and failure depend on conditions,” suggests that our achievements and defeats are often contingent on external factors. These conditions could include our environment, our resources, the people around us, or even luck. These are elements that we may not have complete control over.

In contrast, the second part of the quote, “the mind neither waxes nor wanes,” conveys the idea that the state of our mind remains constant, regardless of the conditions around us. The phrase “waxes and wanes” is often used to describe the moon’s phases, implying a cycle of growth and decline. When applied to the mind, it suggests that unlike external circumstances that can fluctuate, the mind’s capacity for resilience, growth, and learning remains steady.

Applying this quote to today’s world or personal development, it can serve as a reminder that while we may not always be able to control the circumstances around us, we can control our mindset and how we respond to those circumstances. For example, in a challenging situation such as losing a job, the conditions leading to that event (economic downturn, company restructuring, etc.) are often out of our control. However, our mindset in dealing with this setback—whether we choose to see it as a failure or an opportunity for growth—is within our control.

In essence, this quote underscores the importance of maintaining a resilient and growth-oriented mindset, irrespective of the changing external conditions. It encourages us to focus on what we can control—our thoughts, perspectives, and reactions—and not be swayed by the inevitable ups and downs of life.