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.

Zen

The Lotus Mud

Value

June 15, 2008 03:00 PM

Although gold dust is precious, when it gets in your eyes, it obstructs your vision.
— Hsi-Tang

Renounce your Attachment

June 10, 2008 12:07 AM

There is a misconception that to be a Buddhist, one must renounce all that is worldly. I disagree. It is the unsatiable desire - the attachment - that we must renounce.

Usually, after you’ve obtained the object of your desire - your desire does not end - it simply shifts to the next object. You will always find yourself unsatisfied and in search of something new. I think Aitken Roshi put it best:

“Renunciation is not getting rid of the things of this world, but accepting that they pass away.” - Robert Aitken Roshi

Find Your Hut

October 18, 2006 07:28 PM

"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.

Blog >