There's a zen koan that I really like. It goes something like this:
Before enlightenment, chop wood carry water.
After enlightenment, chop wood carry water.
Discuss amongst yourselves.
(And Lindy, stop laughing so hard!... I know, I'm not Catholic either.)
Before enlightenment, chop wood carry water.
After enlightenment, chop wood carry water.
Discuss amongst yourselves.
(And Lindy, stop laughing so hard!... I know, I'm not Catholic either.)
13 comments:
I've hear that from buddhist friends of mine. I's a great phrase. Simple and true.
I'm not laughing...
I want to think about his for awhile. I am finding this very provocative.
Lindy
Life goes on until it doesn't :)
I think it's about paying attention.
hmmmm
interesting thoughts so far
Enlightenment does not take away the rhythms (and duties) of life. Neither does salvation. It is more concrete and pithy than the admonition not to be so heavenly minded that one is no earthly good.
thanks for coming by, Paul!
To add to Paul's comment,
After enlightenment, chopping wood and carrying water transform from drudgery into a joyful journey home.
I have to agree with Paul.
The very first page of Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind by D. T. Suzuki says reaching enlightenment isn't such a big deal, but keeping one's beginner's mind is...
I like that, Doug. Always back to the basics. Same is true in the Christian faith.. back to the foundation of God's grace...
What Paul said... and wait, you mean you are NOT Catholic? hahahahaah... I had to say that. Sorry, miss smarty pants is behaving now.
My priest, Anne B+, used it in her sermon the other Sunday. We loved it in the congregation as she delivered it. That's our Anne+...
Catherine+
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