Again, I am unable to sleep. The whole ‘why’ thing I scribbled earlier has the electrons in my cerebral cavity bouncing around too quickly, ricocheting in all directions. Why, I’m not sure! And so it is I leave you with an old Zen proverb relating to WHY...
~~~~~~~~~~
A Zen master saw five of his students returning from the market, after having backpacked to and fro for two days. They were smiling and enjoying themselves. When they arrived at the monastery and had removed their packs, the teacher asked the pupils, “Why do you cherish backpacking?”
The first student replied, “Because the backpack carries these potatoes. I am glad that I do not have to carry them in my arms!” The teacher praised the first student, “You are an intelligent boy! You know a simple solution when you see it.”
The second pupil replied, “I love to watch the trees and fields pass by as I hike down the path!” The teacher commended the second student, “Your eyes are wide open; you see the world.”
The third student replied, “When I backpack, I am content to chant ‘Namu Myōhō Renge Kyō.’” The teacher bestowed much praise on the third student: “Your mind flows like days on a thru-hike.”
The fourth student replied, “When I go backpacking I live in harmony with all sentient beings.” The teacher was pleased. He said to the fourth student, “You are backpacking on the golden path of non-harming.”
The fifth student replied, “I cherish backpacking because I cherish backpacking.” The teacher sat at the feet of the fifth student and said, “I am your student.”
No comments:
Post a Comment