Restless Soma

Death (the tumbling force, public) => Wisdom => Topic started by: Endless~Knot on September 12, 2009, 01:18:59 PM

Title: Awareness
Post by: Endless~Knot on September 12, 2009, 01:18:59 PM
After ten years of apprenticeship, Tenno achieved the rank of Zen teacher. One rainy day, he went to visit the famous master Nan-in. When he walked in, the master greeted him with a question, "Did you leave your wooden clogs and umbrella on the porch?"

"Yes," Tenno replied.

"Tell me," the master continued, "did you place your umbrella to the left of your shoes, or to the right?"

Tenno did not know the answer, and realized that he had not yet attained full awareness. So he became Nan-in's apprentice and studied under him for ten more years.
Title: Re: Awareness
Post by: Endless~Knot on September 12, 2009, 01:20:38 PM
This story may sound nit-picky, but it tells the truth in the level one must attain to be any zen master. Having full awareness, being in the moment at all times. Not being mindless in any form. From putting on your shoes, what you wear, how you brush your hair or teeth. Its the simple things...
Title: Re: Awareness
Post by: daphne on September 12, 2009, 02:24:53 PM
This story may sound nit-picky, but it tells the truth in the level one must attain to be any zen master. Having full awareness, being in the moment at all times. Not being mindless in any form. From putting on your shoes, what you wear, how you brush your hair or teeth. Its the simple things...

So if I can recall to which side I put my shoes, (and what I am wearing) then I can be a zen master? (just kidding!  ;)  )
Title: Re: Awareness
Post by: Endless~Knot on September 12, 2009, 02:32:31 PM
So if I can recall to which side I put my shoes, (and what I am wearing) then I can be a zen master? (just kidding!  ;)  )

LOL!  :D