According to Dogen, in his reiteration of the gates of Dharma illumination in Appendix to the Shobogenzo, the 94th gate is the four elements of sociability which are defined as free giving, kind speech, helpful conduct and mutual cooperation. It is stated that this behaviour enables us to accept all living beings and bestow upon them the living Dharma. But. remember to give them space while doing so.
I just heard of a young girl who was very quiet in school and her teacher questioned whether she actually listened. One day during Art lesson she noticed that the girl was very busy at her easel. She approached and asked the girl what she was drawing. To which the young student said she was drawing a picture of God. The teacher replied, "but, no one knows what God looks like!" the young girl replied, "They will as soon as I finish."
This story illustrates how quickly we respond to creativeness with negativity. This happens every day in our relationships. Creativity is challenged. This is why we should be mindful of the four elements of sociability when dealing with fellow beings that we may be a lamp unto all beings.
gassho,shokai
stlah
I just heard of a young girl who was very quiet in school and her teacher questioned whether she actually listened. One day during Art lesson she noticed that the girl was very busy at her easel. She approached and asked the girl what she was drawing. To which the young student said she was drawing a picture of God. The teacher replied, "but, no one knows what God looks like!" the young girl replied, "They will as soon as I finish."
This story illustrates how quickly we respond to creativeness with negativity. This happens every day in our relationships. Creativity is challenged. This is why we should be mindful of the four elements of sociability when dealing with fellow beings that we may be a lamp unto all beings.
gassho,shokai
stlah
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