Student LL: Docho
Roshi, what can you say to my doubt about whether my zazen is true zazen, my
practice is true practice, and my effort is right effort-- that type of thing?
SR: Don't, you know, don't doubt your practice. Just sit with us. That is true practice. When they get up, you should get up and join our practice. That is good enough. Don't think more than that. Then your practice will be true practice. But if you think too much about your practice, you will lose your practice, you know.
When you cook something, if you think too much or taste so many times, you know: “Too salty? Add water.” Or “Not much salt.” Add salt -- water-- salt. You will lose the whole thing. [Laughter.] That is what you are doing. Okay. So don't think too much, or don't try too hard. Take your time. Okay? -------------------------------- Excerpt from Shunryu Suzuki lecture - 68-04-23-B as found on shunryusuzuki.com. Edited by DC
SR: Don't, you know, don't doubt your practice. Just sit with us. That is true practice. When they get up, you should get up and join our practice. That is good enough. Don't think more than that. Then your practice will be true practice. But if you think too much about your practice, you will lose your practice, you know.
When you cook something, if you think too much or taste so many times, you know: “Too salty? Add water.” Or “Not much salt.” Add salt -- water-- salt. You will lose the whole thing. [Laughter.] That is what you are doing. Okay. So don't think too much, or don't try too hard. Take your time. Okay? -------------------------------- Excerpt from Shunryu Suzuki lecture - 68-04-23-B as found on shunryusuzuki.com. Edited by DC