Number 19: Ordinary Mind
The past is a decided battle, we have no leverage on the present. Without judging, accept reality, wholly as it is now. Then you can fight for what it might become.
A monk asked Tozan, “How can we escape the cold and heat?”
Tozan replied, “Why not go where there is no cold and heat?”
“Is there such a place?” the monk asked.
Tozan commented, “When cold, be thoroughly cold; when hot, be hot through and through.
Blue Cliff Record 43
(Though this translation comes from elsewhere I believe.)
In case you didn’t know, I like some Koans. They’re pretty much nothing until we make something of them, but once we do they’re swell.
