Be Like the Buddha Cat

 

Buddha Cat 

Most animals are full of gratitude for the present moment. Our feline friends just might be among the greatest Buddhist teachers on the planet. Cats embody Buddhist qualities and principles in a natural, effortless way. The following are six examples of Buddhist wisdom from cats:

1. Embrace and Savor the Moment

Embrace and savor the moment and  cats are no exception. Cats sleep when they are tired and eat when they are hungry; conversely, the unenlightened human mind tends to think a hundred thoughts before sleeping and while eating. Strive to embrace and savor each moment without distractions or mind chatter.

2. Make Use of Koans

Some Zen masters have been known to meditate for years on a single koan. The cat’s favorite koan is a simple one: Meow. The definition of koans lies beyond logic, and diligent repetition just might lead you to the gateless gate.

3. Move Mindfully

Cats are known for their ability to walk gracefully over cluttered and challenging terrain. Even if they stumble, they always seem to land on their feet. Remember to move softly and mindfully in your life with each step, and you will be on the road to Enlightenment.

4. Be Focused and Patient

A cat can watch a mouse hole for as long as it takes to pounce at the perfect moment. They embody the one-pointed mind, right concentration and “maintaining evenness.” While waiting, they are alert, still, and present in the moment. Strive to enjoy the fullness of waiting, anticipation, and the gaps between activity – and between thoughts – in your own life as well.

5. Be Unwavering In Your Faith

There are stories of lost cats traversing hundreds of miles to find their way home. The precious jewel of Enlightenment may seem elusive, but it is the destiny of us all. Whether in this lifetime or another, our awakening is assured and progress can be made each day. Be unwavering in your faith in your journey toward Enlightenment.

6. Chant For the Joy of It

In addition to meditation, chanting can be a valuable element of a Buddhist practice. It quiets the mind, centers the spirit, provides a focal point and exudes a positive intention. Cats tend to purr when they are happiest, and the sound is at once joyful and peaceful. Strive to bring joy and equanimity into your Buddhist chanting practice. 

There are Zen masters among us, and many of them are cats. Whether you are a cat owner or just appreciate them, there is much to learn from these sleek, graceful animals. Strive to remember and embody these six gems of Buddhist wisdom from cats. 

* From Buddha Groove 

Yoga Cat

Zen Cats - Meditations

Here is a great book to guide you and your  Zen Cat within. Meditate along with the verses to gain a greater understanding of you, your life and your purpose. Find the meaning of truth in these verses and how to find it in the world around you. Let your inner Zen Cat guide you to enlightenment.

Casey Shannon

Director of North America Branch ~ ICCPS

International Chinese Calligraphy and Ink Painting Society

国際中国書法国画家協会アメリカ支部：Ms. Casey Shannon　アメリカ現代水墨画家

Copyright ©  Casey Shannon Studio Art. All rights reserved

Casey Shannon Studio

凱西香儂齋

Hakuin-N.Y. gets 'one hand clapping' Zen debut!

Hakuin
'Two Blind Men on Bridge'

N.Y. gets 'one hand clapping' Zen debut!

By ANN LEVIN

The Associated Press

NEW YORK — The publication of J.D. Salinger's "Nine Stories" introduced a new generation of Americans to a Zen Buddhist koan roughly translated as, "What is the sound of one hand clapping?"

"Making Dango"

This koan, which is an aid to meditation that cannot be solved by logical thinking, can be traced back to the 18th century Zen master Hakuin Ekaku.

Hakuin, who was also a brilliant and prolific painter, is virtually unknown to American audiences. Now, in the hopes of remedying that situation, the Japan Society in New York is staging the first retrospective of Hakuin's work in the United States.

Read full article in The Japan Times

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Hakuin

Hakuin ~ Zen Master

Contemplating 'The Sound of One Hand'

What is the sound of one hand clapping?

So asked Hakuin, the author of this well known Zen koan. Hakuin was one of the most important Japanese Zen masters of the Rinzai school. Hakuin often asked his students to contemplate and meditate on this koan. Hakuin Ekaku (白隠 慧鶴, 1686–1769 or 1685–1768) was one of the most influential figures in Japanese Zen Buddhism.

Much of Hakuin's practice focused, as his teachings did, on zazen and koan practice. His motto was "meditation in the midst of activity is a thousand times superior to meditation in stillness". Hakuin's experiences of enlightenment seemed to come at unexpected moments, often when he was just walking or reading. One experience that he wrote about took place while he was walking through a torrential rain. As the water reached his knees, he suddenly realized the meaning of a particular verse that he had read earlier, and was seized by enlightenment. He had many such experiences, both large and small. Laughter was a large part of Hakuin's reaction to his enlightenments, and he was known to burst into spontaneous laughter upon realizing the essence of a particular koan, causing those around him to believe him to be a madman.

My heartfelt mission is to tell everyone on the planet that there is hope and life after stroke or any traumatic life-altering experience. I want to inspire others not only with my words but also with my art. Hakuin asked this question: 'What is the sound of one hand clapping?'. Could it be painting in wild abandon with your non-dominate hand? Creating 'The Sound of One Hand'?

Click Here to read my story and view 'The Sound of One Hand'.

Casey Shannon Studio

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