Perfect freedom is
not found without some rules.
People, especially young people, think that
freedom is to do just what they want, that in Zen there
is no need for rules. But this does not mean always to be under
control. As long as you have rules, you have a chance for
freedom. To try to obtain freedom without being aware
of the rules means nothing. It is to acquire
this perfect freedom that we
practice zazen.
If the human species
has been able to make any progress,
it is because of our heart of love and compassion.
We need to learn from compassionate beings how to develop
the practice of deep observation for the sake of others.
Then others will be able to learn from us the way to
live in the present, and see the impermanent
and selfless nature of all that is.
This insight will lessen
suffering.
The most valuable
possessions are equanimity, modesty,
and inner independence. With these you
can travel anywhere and meet
with good fortune.
second changing line
from The I Ching, or Book of Changes
Hexagram 14, Ta Yu / Possession in Great Measure
(full text here)
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What is
the difference between
a monk and a husband? What is
the difference between a priest and a
layperson? I accept that this world is terrible
and full of suffering, and I also enjoy
happiness when it comes to me.
As long as I am with Tao,
distinctions are
superfluous.
We can
aspire to be kind
right in the moment,
to relax and open our heart and
mind to what is in front of us right in
the moment. Now is the time. If there’s
any possibility for enlightenment,
it’s right now, not at
some future
time.
Pema Chödrön