Time and again, in practice, all we really have to do is see the part of us that is either fearful or reluctant or objecting.
See that part – the one we think is the problem.
Once we can see that part, the one that we ourselves are objecting to, and believe to be problematic, and the origin of our difficulty in practice – once we see it, we can learn to simply be with it.
No need to do anything about it. Be with it.
Henry Shukman
We experience a lot of moods and external stimuli during any one day. Rather than getting sucked in, can we dwell calmly, simply aware as they rise and pass away?
The mind and the externals are just thus.
The gate of liberation is open.
Dogen
Look within.
Within is the wellspring of good;
and it is always ready to bubble up, if you just dig.
Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
There is a hard truth to be told:
before Spring becomes beautiful
it is plug ugly, nothing but mud and muck…
But in that muddy mess,
the conditions for rebirth are being created
Parker Palmer
Ryokan realises that happiness is related to not forcing life, but letting it unfold. The buds in Spring come all by themselves.
Once in a while I just let time move on
Leaning against a solitary pine
Standing without speaking, as does the whole Universe
Ah, who can share this solitude with me?
Ryokan, 1758 – 1831, Soto Zen Buddhist monk
We have to cultivate contentment with what we have.
We really don’t need much. When you know this, the mind settles down.
Cultivate generosity. Delight in giving.
Learn to live lightly.
In this way, we can begin to transform what is negative into what is positive. This is how we start to grow up.
Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo, No Excuses
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