Guest guest Posted June 21, 2004 Report Share Posted June 21, 2004 Baishi, A young monk from the Sichuan province heard of Yufeng's reputation as one well-versed in the Way. Baishi leaves home in his fifteenth to study with Yufeng at the monastery near Jadepeak. One cloudy day, when Yufeng is resting under a big pine by the dharma hall Baishi asks Yufeng, " It is said that enlightenment is like waking up. What do we wake up from, Teacher? " " The idea that you'll wake up. " " Then what's the difference between those who are awake and those who are asleep? " " Such distinctions don't exist. You create the idea of waking and sleeping and project them onto people. " " Am I awake then? " " No. " " Then I am sleeping? " " No. You believe the thought " I am awake or I am asleep " means something. You create distinctions where none exist. To What or whom is it that such distinctions apply? Find that thing to which you believe such ideas apply. You're trapped in a world of your own making. But, really, you're not trapped at all. Watch these thoughts arise and find out to whom or what they refer and be done with these games. " The dinner bell rings. Baishi bows quickly and scampers off to the kitchen to prepare for dinner. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You are posting as a guest. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.