A Cup of Tea

By Paul | May 19, 2013 |

cupofteaNan-in, a Japanese master during the Meiji era (1868-1912), received a university professor who came to inquire about Zen.

Nan-in served tea. He poured his visitor’s cup full and then kept on pouring.

The professor watched the overflow until he no longer could restrain himself. “It is overfull. No more will go in!”

“Like this cup,” Nan-in said, “you are full of your own opinions and speculations. How can I show you Zen unless you first empty the contents of your cup?”

There are many times that you need to let go of the old to make room for the new. I have become reminded many times to “Let go of the Good in order to make room for the Great.”

It is easier than it sounds.

Be Well.
Paul.
The Gratitude Guru

Posted in Gratitude and tagged ,

4 Comments

  1. Margaret on May 20, 2013 at 12:34 am

    Hello Paul, thank you for your dedicated time to this mission.
    It’s one of the most inspirational blogs I’ve seen,
    and I thank you every day for your gratitude reflections.
    I am grateful also that you are on
    the mend from a recent illness.
    Again my thanks,
    Margaret

    Reply
    • Paul on May 20, 2013 at 7:21 am

      Thanks, Margaret! I am glad you enjoy the site! Let me know if there is anything you would like to see.

      Reply
  2. Eren on May 31, 2013 at 4:50 am

    There are many times that you need to let go of the old to make room for the new.

    – i agree with this

    Reply
    • Paul on June 4, 2013 at 2:52 pm

      Time to let things go, Eren! I certainly need to remember this! Thanks for stopping by!

      Reply

Leave a Comment