Helm, this is very nice.
Only crit that I can possibly have is that most if not all of what was being said applies to much broader topics than just plain pixel art. Not really a crit, and this is a pixel forum after all, but in true spirit of those teachings why limit one's scope? Just thought I'd say that, I'm not implying anything. Moving on...
"Do not deny the classical approach, simply as a reaction, or you will have created another pattern and trapped yourself there."
Apart form your interpretation, I'd say this works on a larger scale. Many people try to keep the external pressure form crowding in on them and forcing them to work in this or that manner. Being anti-anything is in a sense as much limiting as being a conformist. Both are basing your actions on external pressures, just in juxtaposed manner. In other words, try pixeling approaches that others have made you despise, 'cause it's not about them, it's about yourself.
Also, I'd compare the physical fitness/technique practice with traditional art skills/pixel technique. Practicing composition, textures, colors, light etc and especially working from nature/reference all help pixel pushing, especially since pixel art has a layer of technical limits on top of everything that can prevent one from focusing on the art itself.
Maybe someone else has another interpretation? That is what I believe is the topic of the thread, not teaching fish to fly.