the lotus mud

The roots of a lotus are in the mud; the stem grows up through the water, and the flower lies above the water, basking in the sunlight. This pattern of growth signifies the progress of the soul from the primeval mud of materialism, through the waters of experience, and into the bright sunshine of enlightenment. Though there are other water plants that bloom above the water, it is only the lotus which, owing to the strength of its stem, rises eight inches above the surface.

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October 18, 2006 07:28 PM Filed in: Quotes | Zen

"My hut isn’t quite six feet across Surrounded by pine, bamboos, and mountains, An old monk hardly has room for himself Much less for a visiting cloud." - Shih-wu (1272-1352)

Seek happiness within yourself, not in the clouds.

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