A famous middle-aged Buddhist monk, who was suffering from a terminal disease, was interviewed by the press. “How does it make you feel, knowing you are dying?” the interviewer asked. “How does it make you feel to know you are dying?” the monk replied. “I mean, soon, before your time,” came the reply. “Whenever we … Continue reading Life’s potential
Tag: buddhism
Significant insignificance
Winter solstice this year saw the great conjunction of Saturn and Jupiter. This close alignment had not occurred since 1623 and with the close proximity of Christmas, it was named by many as the Christmas Star, similar to the one which many believe guided the three wise men to the baby Jesus, two thousand and … Continue reading Significant insignificance
Stillness
For many Buddhists, the world is seen as a difficult place, full of delusion and attachments, which in turn cause suffering and pain. This whirlwind, however, can be escaped through Nirvana, which is seen as a state of 'no wind', the ultimate attainment. Nirvana ensures no rebirth, a break from the wheel of life into … Continue reading Stillness
Shielding
Buddhism talks about 'emptiness' and for many this can be a difficult concept to accept. The idea that everything leads to suffering and that ultimately everything is empty can appear nihilistic and fairly depressing, but this 'emptiness' does not mean worthless, or devoid of meaning. It is a common human condition that we attach personal … Continue reading Shielding
Satori
The sudden and intuitive way of seeing into anything, whether it be remembering a forgotten name or seeing into the deepest principles of Buddhism. One seeks and seeks, but one cannot find. One then gives up, and the answer comes by itself.* We have all experienced this on some level or other, whether we were … Continue reading Satori
Unique
Each and every one of us, since existence began, is unique. Infinity pervades all aspects of existence, implying there was no beginning, and our own uniqueness will have no end. We all exist in this same time and space, but this time and space has boundaries in our minds. Infinity, by definition, has no boundaries. … Continue reading Unique
Experience
Buddhism can be studied, taught in schools, colleges, universities. One can have a 'masters' in Buddhism, yet that does not make one a 'master' of Buddhism. The intellect can only take us so far. One can read about the delicate scent of a flower, the feel upon the skin of a gentle breeze, the taste … Continue reading Experience
Zen musings 