Zen and life are an inseparable unity. In the philosophy of Zen Buddhism, the function of Zen can only be revealed in life. Detached from the vehicle of life, Zen becomes an empty penance. There is a saying in Buddhism: "Zen is life". This concept closely links Zen with life, emphasizing the ubiquity of Zen in life.
All practitioners, no matter where they are, dress and eat the same way. They are "willful and carefree, free from fate, but with all their hearts, there is no other holy understanding". This simple and authentic way of life is exactly the attitude of life advocated by Zen Buddhism. It emphasizes the practice of daily life, treating everything with a normal mind and not deliberately pursuing detachment.
People who have a "Zen" mind can understand the true meaning and joy of life. They are able to perceive the subtleties of life and feel the Zen opportunities hidden everywhere in life. In the midst of the hustle and bustle of the world, they can find inner peace and harmony. No matter what kind of difficulties you encounter, you can maintain a calm mind and use wisdom to resolve difficulties, instead of falling into anxiety and helplessness.
The natural nature of Zen makes it intimately connected to nature. The beauty, sounds, and breath of nature are all manifestations of Zen. Zen practitioners seek spiritual sustenance and a source of inspiration in nature. They appreciate the tranquility and magnificence of the mountains and rivers, feel the breeze of the wind and the fragrance of flowers, so as to gain inner peace and harmony.
Zen does not hide anything, it is the way nature is. It's not mysterious, and it's not hard to understand. It is the wisdom and strength that lies deep within every human being. Through meditation, one can discover one's inner potential and thus reach greater potential in one's life and career.
The close integration of Zen and life is a realm of practice and an art of living. It advocates the practice of daily life and the wisdom of Zen to comprehend the true meaning and interest of life. When we have a "Zen" mind, we can feel the beauty and meaning of life, and we can also find our place and value in this world. So, in a sense, Zen is life, and life is Zen.
Practicing the wisdom of Zen is not an easy task, and it requires continuous effort and perseverance. Only in this way can we truly appreciate the true meaning and interest of life. When we face everything in life with a Zen mentality, we will find that life is full of Zen opportunities. Whether it is dressing and eating, working or studying, interpersonal communication, or leisure and entertainment, it may become an opportunity for us to realize Zen.
At work, we can cope with challenges and pressures by focusing on the present moment and letting go of distractions. In interpersonal communication, we can use an equal, inclusive, and respectful attitude to understand others, communicate ideas, and solve problems. In leisure and entertainment, we can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of life by quietly observing and tasting nature.
Through meditation, we can develop a quality that is indifferent to fame and fortune and transcendent from other things. This quality allows us to transcend the bondage of material things and pursue true inner freedom and happiness. Whether it is in a bustling city or a remote countryside, we can all find our own peace and beauty in life.
The blending of Zen and life is a profound and extensive philosophical thought and practice method. In this era full of challenges and opportunities, we should integrate the wisdom of Zen into our lives and face everything with a Zen mentality. Only in this way can we truly appreciate the true meaning and interest of life, and achieve self-transcendence and growth.