Dear Spiritual Academic,
According to the super cute monk, Thich Nhat Hanh,
“Insight can’t be found in sutras, commentaries, or Dharma talks. Liberation and awakened understanding can’t be found by devoting ourselves to the study of Buddhist scriptures. This is like hoping to find fresh water in dry bones.
Returning to the present moment, using our clear mind that exists right here and now, we can be in touch with liberation and enlightenment, as well as with the Buddha and all his disciples as living realities right in this moment.” *
So, put the book down. Stop reading. Stop searching for just a few moments. Stop the analysis. Realize that what you are looking for is with you, wherever you are, wherever you go, whatever you do. Stop hiding in the library and get out there and live.
And, by the way, you don’t have to put “finding enlightenment” on your To Do List or compartmentalize it into blocks in your schedule labeled “yoga, 5-7 pm” or “meditation 6-7am” either.
Wash those pans, walk that dog, kiss your kid, teach your students, eat your lunch, take that poop (yeah, I said that), ride that bike, turn the key and drive, and in all of these moments, BE there.
Sincerely,
A Recovering Spiritual Academic
*The Pocket Thich Nhat Hanh. Shambala Pocket Classics, 2012, p.99.
