can we control our intentions? can we control our perceptions?

Answer 1

this is a tricky question , and to be honest , I'm sure there is more then one right answer.
in my opinion , we can control the way we think - over time.
say for example , every time you hurt yourself , you cus , and you want to change this about yourself. then start correcting yourself.
after awhile you will start to say something else. you will intend to say something else. therefore , you will have changed ( and controlled ) your intentions.
it takes time , but we can condition ourselves to think a certain way.
our perceptions , (similar to our intentions) is the same way.
but this will take alot longer.
the way we perceive things , is instilled in us from a very young age.
not necessarily , on purpose from any one person , but by our environment.
if you want t o change the way you perceive things , then you will have to surround yourself in an environment to suite your desired perception.
and think outside the box. (be selfless)

Answer 2

Yes, you would have to have an idea in the first place to have an intention. Perceptions can be controlled, it just is a matter of teaching the self not to react, but to think before doing or saying anything, so as not to misjudge.