This is the most important belief we should have—to believe in nothing [laughs]. To believe in nothing is to believe in everything. So, first of all, we should believe in nothing. Don't feel lonely [laughs]. You should exist just by yourself. This kind of spirit you must have. And then practice our way, and then read scriptures, or see your teacher. Then you will have true meaning of your own life. Religion is through and through the personal thing. Religion is just for yourself, not for others. --------------------------- Excerpt from Shunryu Suzuki lecture - 67-08-20 - as found on shunryusuzuki.com, from one of the newly discovered (2021) lecture tapes. Edited by DC - Going through Suzuki lectures and posting anything that can stand on its own. Not looking for zingers or "the best of." I find that following these excerpts daily provides another way to experience Suzuki's teaching. Go to https://www.instagram.com/cuke_archives/ for more daily Shunryu Suzuki lecture excerpts - with a photo