the point where buddha is actualized

isaac levitan

 

We just sit in the midst

of this contradiction where, although

we aim, we can never perceive hitting the mark.

We just sit in the midst of this contradiction that is

absolutely ridiculous when we think about it with our small mind.

In our zazen, it is precisely at the point where our small, foolish self

remains unsatisfied, or completely bewildered, that immeasurable

natural life beyond the thoughts of that self functions.

It is precisely at the point where we become

completely lost that life operates and

the power of Buddha is

actualized.

 

Kosho Uchiyama

 

three inches of tongue


 

Why practice quiet sitting?

So you can really get a look

At your original mind.

You look at it coming, look at it going,

And then you know you’re the original person.

This latter age has no deep faith,

No one practices the

Direct road to understanding.

All they do is flap three inches of tongue

And lose themselves in the muddle of the mind.

 

Gensei