Don't Bow to Buddhas

[Guest guest]

Ching An as a young man burned off two of his fingers as an offering

to the Buddha. Later in his life he reflects on the pride and

silliness of the act.

 

Laughing at Myself II :

 

Slices of flesh made burnt offering

to the Buddha.

Just so, I came to know myself

a ball of mud dissolving in the water.

I had ten fingers. Now, just eight remain.

Did I really think I could become a Buddha

one slice at a time?

 

 

 

 

 

 

Zen monk Shotetsu (1381-1459)

 

First Autumn Wind:

 

Ah, how I wish

that I could feel

as I will later

as winter's captive!

It seems

too chilly, now—

this first wind

of autumn.

 

 

 

 

Korean poet Ko Un:

 

Drinking in downtown Taejon

my mouth was stuffed full

with a big lump of broiled steak

but suddenly I couldn't swallow it

couldn't spit it out . . .

outside the pouring rain was shouting:

Quick! Say something!

 

What?

 

 

 

 

—Robert Sund:

 

My father—

He knew

How many beautiful August evenings

surround an ear of corn.