Suffering is Optional

RIC_0854-2, a photo by rchoephoto on Flickr.

Pain is inevitable; Suffering is optional.

Zen Aphorism

The road to freedom

RIC_9556-1, a photo by rchoephoto on Flickr.

“Why is the road to freedom so long?"

Asked a troubled apprentice.

And the master replied,

“Because it has to go through you.”

Zen story

The Path

RIC_9514-1, a photo by rchoephoto on Flickr.

The obstacle is the path.

Zen proverb

Room for improvement!

RCC_8578
Originally uploaded by rchoephoto

You are perfect just the way you are.  And ... there is still room for improvement!

Shunryu Suzuki, Zen master

Lessen your load

RC1_9433
Originally uploaded by rchoephoto

The driver knows how much the ox can carry, and keep the ox from being overloaded. You know your way and your state of mind. Do not carry too much.

Zen saying