Gratitude

In this Day the inner ear exclaimeth and saith: Indeed well is it with me, today is my day, inasmuch as the Voice of God is calling aloud.

The assembly of students in the hall should blend like milk and water to support the activity of the way. Although now for some period you are either guest or host, later you will be buddha ancestors equally throughout time. Therefore, you should not forget the feeling of gratitude. It is rare to meet one another and practice what is rare to practice. This is called the body and mind of buddha dharma; you will certainly become a buddha ancestor.

— Dogen, ‘Regulations for the Auxiliary Cloud Hall at the Kannondori Kosho Gokoku Monastery’ (Tanahashi 2010, 39-40)

2 thoughts on “Gratitude”

  1. Gary, it’s so instructive how you highlight the similarities in the teachings of the great masters. “This Day”, “the way”, “the Voice of God”, “the body and mind of buddha dharma.” Two traditions, same intent. In essence, it’s the same journey.

    “To thank God for His bounties consisteth in possessing a radiant heart, and a soul opening to the promptings of the spirit. This is the essence of thanksgiving.” Baha’i Writings, Abdu’l-Baha

    1. Thanks Helen! Every day is a good one for giving thanks.
      As Charles Peirce might have said it: two signs, same interpretant. (Depending of course on the interpreter’s practice.)

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