Reading a report about the progress to health of the
beloved Thich Nhat Hanh by Justin Whitaker (July 14, 2015), Thich Nhat Hanh comes to the USA for further treatment,
funds sought to cover costs, there is an interesting
discussion about clinging ... to life, to teacher ... something Buddhism
disavows. To wit:
"When I have responded
to such misgivings, it has usually been to note that all involved are still
human, or to question the use of the term ‘clinging’ here. In Buddhist thought,
motivation is key, and yet guessing about or supposing to know the motivations
of others is a fool’s game. Perhaps those close to Thay are indeed clinging to
him as much as devoted followers of any religious leader. Or perhaps they
instead see his message that has reached so many people around the world and
wish only to see that message continue in the strongest way possible, through
his continuing to teach and write.
"My sense is that too
many people have seized on the message of non-clinging (which is a good and
central message within Buddhism) and tried to apply it here too forcefully. Like all teachings, it should be taken with some
nuance. When driving on a windy mountain road, a good Buddhist clings firmly to
the steering wheel.
"Perhaps Thay and his
students see his journey as not quite finished and so hold on and work to see it
through."
I am reminded of a conversation I once had with a Japanese
Zen monk. I advanced my understanding of working / not working toward emptiness
and was basically told that by working or not, my concept of emptiness was
severe.
Back to the pillow. Opening the hand.
And the other hand ...
Image: Geoff Livingston. CC Thanks
~
