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Embody the essence of Zen in living and dying from "summary" of The Zen of Living and Dying by Philip Kapleau
To embody the essence of Zen in living and dying is to fully embrace the present moment, to be completely aware and engaged in whatever we are doing, whether it is washing dishes, walking in the park, or facing our own mortality. It is a way of being that transcends the dualities of life and death, of pleasure and pain, of success and failure. It is a state of mind that is free from attachment, free from the constant craving for more and the fear of loss. In Zen practice, we learn to cultivate mindfulness and awareness in our daily lives, so that we can face life's challenges with equanimity and grace. We learn to let go of our preconceived ideas and expectations, to release our judgments and assumptions, and to simply be present with whatever is arising in the moment. This is not always easy, especially when we are faced with the prospect of our own death or the death of a loved one. But by facing our fears and anxieties head-on, by embracing the impermanence of life and the inevitability of death, we can find a deeper sense of peace and acceptance. Living and dying are not separate events, but part of the same continuum of existence. Just as the waves are not separate from the ocean, so our lives are not separate from the universe. By recognizing our interconnectedness with all beings, by seeing ourselves as part of the vast web of life, we can find a sense of purpose and meaning that transcends our individual egos. This is the essence of Zen: to see beyond the illusions of the self, to awaken to our true nature as part of the whole.- We are reminded of the impermanence of all things, of the fleeting nature of our lives and the preciousness of each moment. By embracing this reality, by fully experiencing the joys and sorrows of life without clinging to them, we can find a deep sense of liberation and freedom. This is the ultimate goal of Zen practice: to live with an open heart, to die with a peaceful mind, and to embody the essence of Zen in every moment of our lives.
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