Valorization of Everyday Life; A Zen Story

Joshu asked a monk who appeared for the first time in the hall,

“Have I ever seen you here before?”

The monk answered, “No sir, you have not.”

“Then have a cup of tea,” said Joshu.

He turned to another monk. “Have I ever seen you here before?”

“Yes sir, of course you have,” said the second monk.

“Then have a cup of tea,” said Joshu.

Later, the managing monk of the monastery asked Joshu,

“How is it that you make the same offer of tea whatever the reply to your question?”

At this Joshu shouted, “Manager, are you still here?”

“Of course, master!” the manager answered.

“Then have a cup of tea,” said Joshu.

The idea of the valorization of everyday life was explained in Marea Eliade's The Sacred and Profane: The Nature of Religion. He discovered in cultures throughout time and location the function of rites, rituals and attitudes in adding value to individual lives by encouraging the perception of the sacred in even the most mundane activities: such the conscious, careful and appreciative drinking of tea.

Joshu (Chinese: Chao-chou) was a Chinese Zen (Chan) Master (778-897) known for his paradoxical statements and strange behavior.

The Way of Transformation

Daily life seems to be an obstacle to spiritual growth, but this is only true if one does not know how to use it.' Many people today are looking for new ways to escape the increasing suppression of their essential being by the modern way of life. The general interest in yoga and Zen Buddhism is evidence of a new awareness of the need for spiritual well-being. The way of transformation will help all genuine seekers, regardless of their creed or religion, and will open new doors to the freedom of transcendental reality which lies within our worldly existence. (back cover of book.)

Head, neck, feet, belly

The head and the neck are two different things. The head is solid, and the neck is springy. Let your head bob on your neck a bobble head doll. The jaw hangs loosely from your skull.

Feet are your connection with the earth. There are two of them.

Your belly is the seat of your personal power. Keep it there.

As Terry says: Movement is how we keep our body-parts "alive."

Keep this awareness going all this week. Be sure to have a head, neck, feet and belly.

And, for goodness' sake, open your mouth! Remember to make faces in the mirror every day. Explore your range of motion and expressions. Don't just make grotesquely exaggerated distortions. Make happy, sad, curious, beautiful, sensuous, stern, surprised . . .