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There is a Zen saying: “Spring comes, and the grass grows by itself.”
What does this mean? At first glance it sounds like we should sit back and go with the flow. But it points to a fundamental truth: the grass doesn't grow by force of will, rather it does so naturally at the proper time.
We often feel we must force a response—to speak or to act—fearing that stillness is a betrayal of self. But when we act from ego, the result feels strained. With practice, we see through the "I" that needs to control. Action then arises naturally from the situation, even when that action is simply waiting.
We find that an intuitive response is already there in the stillness. It is less an act of will; it flows from the moment, unforced and complete.
As the season turns, let’s see what is unfurling in this moment.
Bob Kutter, Dharma Teacher
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