Discernment

The Great Fool
Ryokan

In all ten directions of the universe,
there is only one truth.
When we see clearly, the great teachings are the same.
What can ever be lost? What can be attained?
If we attain something, it was there from the beginning of time.
If we lose something, it is hiding somewhere near us.
Look: this ball in my pocket:
can you see how priceless it is?

The Zen master confuses and compels us with his words.
That is his method.
Mine is to offer a simple blessing:
May our eyes be clear enough to recognize truth when it presents itself,
even though the source surprises us.
May our ears be true enough to know falsehood when we hear it,
even when disguised by beautifully crafted words and turns of phrase.
May our hearts be compassionate enough and our spirits brave enough
to speak the truth in love, if we are to speak at all.
May we find and embrace the truth that dwells in metaphor, mystery, and silence.
So may it be.
Amen

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When people see things as beautiful, ugliness is created.
When people see things as good, evil is created.

Being and non-being produce each other.
Difficult and easy complement each other.
Long and short define each other.
High and low oppose each other.
Fore and aft follow each other.

Therefore the Master can act without doing anything
and teach without saying a word.
Things come her way and she does not stop them;
things leave and she lets them go.
She has without possessing, and acts without any expectations.
When her work is done, she take no credit.
That is why it will last forever.

Tao Te Ching 2