a single breath

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There is a Zen story about
how a single breath can free us
from the confines of our intellectualizing
and unite us with all creation.

Tokusan was a brilliant scripture scholar who went
to study with Zen Master Ryutan.
One night as Tokusan was leaving to go home to bed after a long evening of discussion, he noticed that it was pitch black outside.
Zen master Ryutan lit a lantern and handed it to Tokusan.
Just as Tokusan reached for the lantern, Ryutan blew it out.

In that moment,
Tokusan experienced enlightenment and bowed in gratitude.

Tokusan realized that he was not dependent upon words and teachings to light the way for him. Even in times of darkness,
he could experience his essential nature directly
and be a lamp unto himself.


. — Ellen Birx in "Healing Zen"
Buddhist Wisdom on Compassion, Caring, and Caregiving —
for Yourself and Others







haiku -
a single breath
can free us



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. my QUOTES with HAIKU


. . . Read my Haiku Archives 2010

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