Layman P'ang

Layman P'ang is a legendary Zen figure. He was born in China around 740 AD and died in 808. A man of extraordinary insight he is most noted for taking all of his worldly belongings, putting them into a boat and after setting the boat out into the water, sank it. I like him for a number of reasons, but mostly because of his 'eccentric' behavior and pointed comments.

He is also noted for many wonderful sayings. I am going to post one of my favorites from the book, "A Man of Zen: The Recorded Sayings of Layman P'ang" translated by Sasaki, Iriya, Fraser.

Here is Verse 25:

"When the mind's as is,
The spirit of itself is empty.
Without applying medicine,
Ills remove themselves.
With ills removed,
You naturally see the lotus flower mani-jewel *
Don't trouble over affairs,
Don't bustle around!
The wise man, perceiving wealth and lust,
Knows them to be empty illusion;
Food and clothes sustain body and life---
I advise you to learn being as is.
When it's time, I move my hermitage and go,
And there's nothing to be left behind."

Read and re-read this. Meditate upon it and get to know the meaning behind the words. If you are a martial artist or healer, take this one to heart.

Hands palm to palm,
Shinzen

*(mani-jewel is a gem that grants every wish)

pic courtesy of godrinktea.com

Depressed? Money Worries? Unappreciated?

In my alter ego as a mental health professional and doctor of naturopathy, I am often asked if I can prescribe medicine. I say I can only prescribe one pill...it is Fukitol.

It must, however, only be taken on a belly full of laughter. When taken with laughter, this pill will help change your ability to see life and lift your mood almost immediately. Take as needed...and feel free to share with friends. It is addictive...but this is a good thing.

Warning: When taken on a belly full of seriousness, an upset stomach and/or emotional distress might occur. If this happens consult your local yogi, taoist or zen lunatic for a perspective checkup.

This pill was distributed through bestofunnyemail.com and is not intended for use with people who have no sense of humor.

Hands palm to palm laughing out loud,

Shinzen