As a human being you possess — or are supposed to possess—intelligence, and develop a critical attitude toward what you are doing. You are supposed to see through deception. That is the basic point: spiritual materialism can be cut through by your own self-existing irony, your critical attitude. And that is where the possibility of enlightenment lies: you can’t be deceived, you can’t be all that gullible and cowardly. Otherwise there’s no point in talking about enlightenment

From Cynicism and Magic: Intelligence and Intuition on the Buddhist Path, page 6

Of Interest to Readers:  Mondays, Starting October 4: Join an online course to explore Cynicism and Magic, the newest volume of never before published talks by Chogyam Trungpa, based on his first seminar at Naropa. The course will focus on Buddhist teachings for uncovering intelligence and insight, for transcending both nihilistic thinking and naïve faith, as we progress on the path of meditation. The course is moderated by Carolyn Gimian, who selects the  weekly quotes. Each class will feature presentations and dialogues with the book’s editors and their special guests.  The first night is a celebration of the book’s publication and is free for all. For information and to register, go to: https://www.naropa.edu/academics/extended-campus/cynicism-magic/