The arrow hits the mark effortlessly from "summary" of Zen in the Art of Archery by Eugen Herrigel
The master archer draws the bow with a sense of calm and focus, his movements fluid and effortless. There is no tension in his body, no strain in his muscles. He is like a leaf floating gently on the surface of a stream, carried along by the current of his own inner strength. As he takes aim, his mind is clear and his gaze unwavering. He does not see the target as something separate from himself, but as an extension of his own being. The arrow is not simply a tool to hit the mark, but a manifestation of his intention and will. When he releases the arrow, it flies straight and true, guided by the master's skill and concentration. It does not veer off course or waver in its trajectory. It follows the path laid out for it with precision and accuracy. As the arrow reaches its target, there is a sense of completion and fulfillment in the master's heart. He is not surprised by his success, nor does he take credit for it. The arrow hitting the mark effortlessly is simply the natural outcome of his years of practice and dedication to the art of archery. In this moment of harmony and unity, there is no separation between the archer, the bow, the arrow, and the target. They are all part of the same seamless whole, moving in perfect synchrony with each other. The arrow hitting the mark effortlessly is not a result of luck or chance, but of the master's deep understanding of himself and his craft. This concept goes beyond mere physical skill and technique; it is a reflection of the archer's inner state of being. It is a testament to his ability to let go of ego and desire, to surrender to the flow of the universe and trust in the wisdom of the Tao. In the art of archery, as in life, the key to success lies in simplicity, clarity, and coherence. It is about finding the balance between effort and effortlessness, between action and non-action. It is about being fully present in the moment, without attachment to the outcome. It is about letting go of the self and merging with the greater whole. The arrow hitting the mark effortlessly is not just a physical act; it is a spiritual one. It is a symbol of the archer's journey towards self-realization and enlightenment. It is a reminder that true mastery comes not from striving and struggling, but from surrendering and letting go.
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