Sunday, September 26, 2010

Tea with a Zen Master


An enthusiastic young man pleaded an old Zen master to take him as a student.  In his plea, the young man made obvious his advanced knowledge.  As he spoke at length, the master began to pour the young man a cup of tea.  He continued pouring even when the tea had reached the brim and overflowed.  The young man became quiet and realized that he needed to empty his cup before the master could fill it with the teachings that he desired.  The young man thanked the master and quietly departed.

It is difficult to imagine Magic existing without time, as time is a law of Nature, though, Magic often seems to transcend this law and perhaps, so too, my imagination.  Time is the teaching of the Zen master in the story above.  As he silently articulates, full attention cannot be given to the present moment when the mind lags in the thoughts of unfinished work constantly looming overhead. 
Imagine how stress-free life would be, if projects were completed and thoughts concluded.  Completing tasks leaves the mind and body free to experience this moment in time.
…So, take one sip at a time, my friend.

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