Weekly Message Sept 4

From the book "SPIRITUAL LIBERATION" by Michael Bernard Beckwith

"There is a well known story about a Samurai warrior who wanted to know the difference between the heavenly and hellish states of being.  One day he approached his teacher saying, "Master, please, may I have the teachings on the difference between living in the hell realm and living in the heaven realm?"  Feigning anger, the teacher said,"Get away from me.  You are ignorant, stupid!!  Why would I waste my time teaching you anything?  Stop wasting my time and get out of here!"  Upon hearing his teacher's words, the Samurai warrior's ego was so insulted that he pulled out his sword with the intent to cut off the Master's heard.  Just as he began to swing, the master began to laugh saying, "That, my son, is hell." The warrior-student was so moved  by his teacher's willingness to risk his own life to give him this precious teaching that he became overwhelmed with respect and humility.  All he could say was, "Please Rimpoche, accept my humble gratitude" to which the Master responded, "Ahhhhh, now that is heaven."

It is up to us how we process pain and suffering, insult, and grief.  Although it is never easy, forgiveness always wins the battle.  Love always triumphs over hate.  Understanding always opens up enlightenment.