When we arouse bodhicitta, we must try to eliminate our greatest attachment, self-cherishing. From beginningless time until now, we have not practiced bodhicitta—self-cherishing has been the commander-in-chief and the conqueror in our hearts. It has destroyed bodhicitta and the altruistic mind completely. This is also called egotism. In the area of consciousness, "self" is the decisive factor for everything. If we can practice bodhicitta, for a certain time bodhicitta will definitely overcome self-cherishing and desire, and emerge victorious. Of course, when we are just beginning to practice, if we are not careful we can fall back into desire at any time, because self-cherishing is so intense and its power is so strong. Gradually, however, it will recede and the last of our attachments can be eliminated through the realization of emptiness.

~ Luminous Wisdom Book Series 9: The Principles of Liberation