Principles-precepts-morality before empty mind?

A lot of people jump into an assumption that in order to find that higher spiritual state, the mind just have to automatically let go of affliction and attain that spiritual "empty mind" state, neglecting the idea that to get to that point their are some preliminary practices. Although it is true to some extend, how free-ing the mind from false thoughts is ultimately the goal, there must be realistic and practice procedures to get there. There must be a foundation before progressing into that higher spiritual state of "letting go". If it not realistic and practical to force yourself to let go of false thoughts etc... I doubt that enlightenment can be reached by just thinking about letting go of thought, but rather there it's more experiences and insight through proper spiritual practice that clenses the psyche and consciousness.

So again, it is important to set the foundation before progressing onwards, just like how we have to crawl before we can stand, stand before we can walk, walk before we can run. In this case, it's important to begin from holding on to principles, principles are like morality, precepts, and the act of keeping the action pure from corruption will keep the mind from being corrupted. If one do not keep their precepts and morality, it is easy to feel guilty as the mind is subconscious connected to each other and how you treat others reflects back into you subconscious. If the your actions and speak are pure, the mind will not be disturbed and can rest in peace. Once the mind can rest in peace without any guilts, only then can one let go of that afflictions and be mindful int their spiritual practice.

Again, some people may debate that just let go of guilt, but it is impossible to let go of guilt if one do not become remorse, repent and reform. The negative actions has a strong impact on the mind. Just like how taking alcohol will impair your thoughts, immorality will impair your mind and spiritual growth. So it is rather like how we have to work our way from earth to space in order to fly freely, our principles-precepts-morality will set the foundation before we can spiritually advance, if not it is not possible and things will collapse and become very ugly.

I am not telling you to become paranoid in everything one do, as to some extend it is not healthy to constantly think and be paranoid but just to recognize that negative actions has negative effect on the mind that stunts inner growth. Therefore, being more aware of our actions, take responsibility and to become a good human before we can think of becoming a saint or sage.